Finding your network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier) is essential for connecting devices, troubleshooting network issues, or setting up new equipment. This comprehensive guide explains what an SSID is and provides step-by-step instructions for locating it on various devices.

What is an SSID? 

An SSID is the name that identifies your wireless network. It’s what you see when you’re searching for available Wi-Fi networks on your device. SSIDs serve as unique identifiers that distinguish your network from others nearby, allowing devices to connect to the correct network.

Most routers come with default SSIDs set by manufacturers, often including the brand name and model number. However, network administrators and home users can customize these names for easier identification or added security.

How to find your SSID on different devices

Windows computers

Using the taskbar:

1. Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar (bottom-right corner)
2. The network you’re currently connected to will display at the top of the panel
3. Your SSID is the name of this connected network

Using settings:

1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings
2. Select “Network & Internet”
3. Click on “Wi-Fi” in the left panel
4. Your connected network name (SSID) appears under the “Current network” section

Using command prompt:

1. Press Windows key + R, type “cmd” and press Enter
2. In the Command Prompt window, type “netsh wlan show interfaces” and press Enter
3. Look for “SSID” in the information displayed—this is your network name

Mac computers

Using the menu bar:

1. Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar (top-right corner)
2. Your current network connection (SSID) will have a checkmark next to it

Using network preferences:

1. Click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences”
2. Click “Network”
3. Select “Wi-Fi” from the left panel
4. Your connected network name (SSID) appears next to “Network Name”

Using terminal:

1. Open Terminal from Applications > Utilities
2. Type “/System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/Apple80211.framework/Versions/Current/Resources/airport -I” and press Enter
3. Look for “SSID” in the output—this is your network name

Mobile devices

Android:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap “Connections” or “Network & Internet” (varies by device)
3. Tap “Wi-Fi”
4. The connected network name (SSID) appears at the top or is marked as “Connected”

iPhone/iPad:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap “Wi-Fi”
3. The network with a checkmark is your connected network, and its name is the SSID

Routers and modems

Physical inspection:

1. Look at your router or modem—many devices have a label on the bottom or back
2. Find information labeled “SSID,” “Network Name,” or “Wi-Fi Name”
3. This is your default SSID (unless previously changed)

Router admin panel:

1. Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
2. Log in with your admin credentials
3. Navigate to the wireless settings section
4. Look for “SSID” or “Network Name”—this is your current SSID

Finding SSIDs of available networks

When you need to discover available networks in your area:

On Windows:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar
2. A list of all available networks (SSIDs) in range will appear

On Mac:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar
2. All available networks (SSIDs) will be listed

On mobile devices:

1. Open Wi-Fi settings
2. Available networks will automatically display

Troubleshooting SSID issues

Can’t find your SSID:

• Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled on your device
• Move closer to your router to improve signal strength
• Restart your router and device
• Check if your SSID is hidden (see below)

Hidden SSIDs: Some networks are configured not to broadcast their SSID. To connect to a hidden network:

1. You’ll need to manually enter the network information
2. Use the “Connect to a hidden network” option in your device’s Wi-Fi settings
3. Enter the SSID exactly as it was configured (case-sensitive)

SSID not appearing after router reset:

1. Connect to your router via Ethernet cable
2. Access the admin panel and reconfigure wireless settings
3. Create a new SSID and password

Security considerations

SSID broadcasting:

• Hiding your SSID provides minimal security benefit
• Most network scanning tools can still detect hidden networks
• Hidden networks can make legitimate connections more difficult

Best practices:

• Change default SSIDs to something unique but not personally identifying
• Avoid including personal information in your SSID
• Use strong encryption (WPA3 or WPA2) regardless of SSID visibility
• Regularly update router firmware for security patches