How to Find the SSID on a Wireless

Only connect to wireless networks with known SSIDs.

Routers and access points use SSIDs, or service set identifiers, to specify network names. While routers ship with default names, network administrators can and should change the default SSID to a custom name. Customizing the SSID can prevent security issues and help you (and your network users) identify wireless networks within your range, including suspicious ad-hoc networks that may have been set up to steal your data. By finding the SSID on a wireless network, you can maintain the integrity of your Windows 7 computer.

Instructions

Check Wireless Network Connections

1. Position your computer in an area that only has one wireless network, if possible.

2. Right-click the network icon, which looks similar to the signal bars present on cellular phones.

3. Examine the network listed under "Wireless Network Connection." The name listed is your SSID.

Access Router (If Connected to Wireless Network)

1. Click on "Start." Type "cmd" (without quotes) in the "Search" text field. Press "Enter."

2. Type "ipconfig" (without quotes) in the command prompt box. Press "Enter."

3. Examine the Windows IP configuration results. Find the "Local area connection" and the "Default Gateway." Write down the "Default Gateway" IP address.

4. Open a web browser.

5. Type the "Default Gateway" IP address you wrote down earlier into the address or location bar. Press "Enter."

6. Type the password for the router. Press the "Enter" key. (View the bottom of your router for the default password or access your router's documentation if you are unsure of the password.)

7. Examine the "Wireless setup" section (or a similarly named option) in the router's administrator panel. Look for the SSID. (You may also change the SSID at this time.)

References

• Charter.com: Windows 7 IP Configuration (See "Using the Command Line")
• Microsoft: View and Connect to Available Wireless Networks
• Microsoft: Why Can't I Find a Wireless Network?
• Microsoft: Making Your Network More Secure (See Change the Default SSID)

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Cisco: Wireless Security FAQ