How to make the Wireless network hidden

Summary

This article will walk you through configuring a hidden Wireless network on a capable Series 3 Cradlepoint router.

All wireless client devices (laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.) look for nearby visible wireless networks by performing a “wireless site survey”. This wireless site survey will show the “Service Set Identifier” (SSID) along with the “Basic Service Set Identifier” (BSSID) for each visible network, allowing you to connect to any open network or secured network with which you have proper credentials with.

SSID: The visible name of the wireless network

BSSID: The MAC address of the wireless access point broadcasting the signal

It is possible to configure the wireless network to hide its SSID, so nearby devices would not see it when they search for available WiFi access points. A client must know both the SSID and BSSID of a hidden network, and manually enter this information during the setup of a new wireless connection. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized clients to connect to the network.

Note: Be aware of the potential security disadvantages of using a hidden network. For more information, refer to Service set (802.11 network).

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Configuration

Configuration Difficulty: Beginner

• Step 1: Log into the router's NCOS Page. For help with logging in please view NCOS: Accessing the Setup Pages of a Cradlepoint router
• Step 2: Click NETWORKING from the side menu and select the appropriate WiFi Radio from sub menu (the MBR1400 will have selectable Wifi bands on the right, the AER3100/2100 and IBR1100 models have multiple radios).
• Step 3: You will then see Wireless Access Points / SSIDs section listed on the right of the page.
• Step 4: Place a checkmark next to the WiFi Name (SSID) you wish to hide, then click Edit.

• Step 5: On the Edit SSID screen, place a checkmark next to Hidden.
• Step 6: Click Save at the bottom of the box to save your settings.

After making this change, your network’s SSID will no longer be broadcast and will not be visible for most wireless site surveys. Only wireless clients configured with a wireless profile to connect to your BSSID will be able to connect.