Are you having trouble connecting to a hidden network on your Windows 10 device? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many users struggle with finding and connecting to hidden networks on their Windows 10 devices. In this article, we’ll explore how to see hidden networks in Windows 10 and provide some tips for troubleshooting network connection issues.
What is a Hidden Network?
A hidden network is a wireless network that does not broadcast its SSID (Service Set Identifier). This means that the network name will not appear in the list of available networks when you search for Wi-Fi connections on your device. Hidden networks are often used for security purposes, as they are not visible to the general public and can only be accessed by those who know the network name and password.
How to See Hidden Networks in Windows 10
Method 1: Using the Network and Sharing Center
The Network and Sharing Center is a built-in feature in Windows 10 that allows you to manage your network connections. To see hidden networks using this method, follow these steps:
- Click on the network icon in the bottom right corner of your screen.
- Click on “Network and Sharing Center”.
- In the left-hand menu, click on “Change adapter settings”.
- Right-click on your Wi-Fi connection and select “Properties”.
- In the Wi-Fi Properties window, click on the “Security” tab.
- Under “Network security key”, check the box next to “Show characters”.
- The network name (SSID) will be displayed in the “Network name” field.
Method 2: Using the Command Prompt
Another way to see hidden networks in Windows 10 is by using the Command Prompt. Follow these steps to do so:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command: netsh wlan show networks mode=bssid
- Press Enter and a list of all available networks, including hidden networks, will be displayed.
Troubleshooting Network Connection Issues
If you are having trouble connecting to a hidden network, here are some tips to help troubleshoot the issue:
Check Your Network Configuration
Make sure that your network configuration is correct. This includes checking the network name, security type, and password. If you are unsure of any of these details, contact the network administrator for assistance.
Move Closer to the Router
If you are having trouble connecting to a hidden network, try moving closer to the router. Sometimes, the signal may be weak and moving closer to the router can help improve the connection.
Restart Your Device and Router
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix network connection issues. Try restarting both your device and router to see if that resolves the problem.
Update Your Network Drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can also cause connection issues. Make sure that your network drivers are up to date by going to the manufacturer’s website and downloading the latest drivers for your device.
Reset Network Settings
If all else fails, you can try resetting your network settings. This will reset all network configurations and may help resolve any connection issues. To do this, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
- Click on “Network & Internet”.
- In the left-hand menu, click on “Status”.
- Scroll down and click on “Network reset”.
- Click on “Reset now” and follow the prompts to reset your network settings.
Conclusion
Hidden networks can be a bit tricky to connect to, but with the right steps and troubleshooting techniques, you can easily see and connect to them on your Windows 10 device. By using the Network and Sharing Center or the Command Prompt, you can view the network name and other details of hidden networks. If you are having trouble connecting, make sure to check your network configuration, move closer to the router, and try restarting your device and router. If all else fails, you can reset your network settings to resolve any connection issues. With these tips, you’ll be able to successfully connect to hidden networks on your Windows 10 device.
