The network name, also known as the SSID (Service Set Identifier), is the unique identifier for your wireless network. It helps devices locate and connect to your Wi-Fi.
Many users wonder if they can change this name, and if so, how to do it properly.
This article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of SSIDs, the reasons for changing your network name, and detailed instructions on how to do so across various routers and devices.
What Is an SSID?
The SSID is the broadcast name of your Wi-Fi network. When you search for available wireless networks on your device, the SSID is the name you see listed.
It distinguishes your network from others nearby.
Key facts about SSIDs:
- The SSID can be up to 32 characters long.
- It is case-sensitive, meaning “HomeWiFi” and “homewifi” are different.
- Most routers come with a default SSID, often based on the manufacturer or model.
Changing your SSID is a simple yet effective way to personalize your network and enhance security.
Why Change Your Network Name (SSID)?
There are several reasons why you might want to change your SSID. Some are practical, while others relate to security or personalization.
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Personalization | Customizing the SSID makes your network easily recognizable, especially in areas with many Wi-Fi networks. |
| Security | Changing the default SSID can reduce the risk of targeted attacks, as hackers often know default router names and associated vulnerabilities. |
| Network Management | For households or businesses with multiple networks, unique SSIDs help differentiate connections (e.g., separating guest networks). |
| Privacy | Removing personal information from the SSID (like your name or address) helps protect your privacy. |
Can You Change Your SSID?
Yes, you can change your SSID. In fact, most routers allow you to customize your network name easily through their administrative interface.
However, the exact steps vary depending on the router brand, model, and firmware.
Changing the SSID does not affect your internet service but will require all devices connected to your Wi-Fi to reconnect using the new network name (and password if changed).
Important Considerations Before Changing Your SSID
- Access to Router Admin Panel: You must have the router’s administrative username and password.
- Reconnection Required: Devices will disconnect and need to reconnect to the new SSID.
- SSID Naming Rules: Avoid special characters that might cause compatibility issues.
- Security Settings: Changing the SSID does not change your Wi-Fi password or encryption settings, but it is a good time to review those.
How to Change Your Network Name (SSID)
Follow these general steps to change your SSID on most routers. Specific instructions for popular brands are included afterward.
- Connect to Your Router: Use a computer or mobile device connected to your network (via Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Open a Web Browser: Enter your router’s IP address in the address bar. Common addresses include
192.168.1.1or192.168.0.1. - Login: Enter the admin username and password. This information is often on a sticker on the router or in the manual.
- Navigate to Wireless Settings: Look for sections labeled “Wireless,” “Wi-Fi,” or “SSID.”
- Change the SSID: Find the field for “SSID” or “Network Name” and enter your desired new name.
- Save Settings: Apply or save the changes. The router may reboot.
- Reconnect Devices: On your devices, connect to the new network name using the existing password (unless you changed it).
Changing SSID on Popular Router Brands
| Brand | Steps Summary | Default Admin Login |
|---|---|---|
| Netgear |
Login to http://www.routerlogin.net or 192.168.1.1 → Wireless settings → Change SSID → Save.
|
Username: admin Password: password |
| TP-Link |
Login to http://tplinkwifi.net or 192.168.0.1 → Wireless → Wireless Settings → SSID → Save.
|
Username: admin Password: admin |
| Linksys |
Login to 192.168.1.1 → Wireless → Basic Wireless Settings → Network Name → Save Settings.
|
Username: admin Password: admin or (blank) |
| Asus |
Login to 192.168.1.1 → Wireless → General → SSID → Apply.
|
Username: admin Password: admin |
| D-Link |
Login to 192.168.0.1 → Setup → Wireless Settings → Wireless Network Name → Save Settings.
|
Username: admin Password: (blank or admin) |
Tips for Choosing a Good SSID
Picking a good SSID goes beyond just changing the name. Here are some important tips:
- Avoid Personal Information: Do not use your full name, address, or phone number.
- Keep It Simple: Use a name that is easy to recognize and type.
- Use Alphanumeric Characters: Stick to letters and numbers to ensure compatibility.
- Be Unique but Appropriate: Steer clear of offensive or controversial names that could cause issues.
- Consider Guest Networks: If your router supports guest SSIDs, name them clearly (e.g., “HomeWiFi-Guest”).
Security Note: Changing your SSID does not secure your network on its own. Always use strong WPA3 or WPA2 encryption with a complex password.
What Happens After Changing the SSID?
Once you change your SSID and save the settings, your router will typically restart the wireless service. This means:
- Your devices will disconnect from the old network.
- You will need to select the new network name on each device and enter the Wi-Fi password again.
- If you have devices with static IP addresses or advanced configurations, you may need to update those settings.
Be aware that some smart home devices or IoT gadgets might require reconfiguration after a network name change.
Can Changing SSID Improve Security?
Changing your SSID alone does not enhance your Wi-Fi security significantly, but it can be part of best practices. Many hackers and automated attacks target routers using default SSIDs because the default name often reveals the router model and firmware version.
By customizing your SSID, you make it less obvious what device or brand you are using, which can discourage opportunistic attacks.
| Security Measure | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Change SSID from Default | Moderate – reduces exposure to targeted default router exploits |
| Use WPA3 or WPA2 Encryption | High – encrypts wireless data and controls access |
| Set Strong Wi-Fi Password | High – prevents unauthorized access |
| Disable SSID Broadcast | Low to Moderate – hides network but can cause connectivity issues |
Advanced Tips and Troubleshooting
Disabling SSID Broadcast
Some users choose to hide their SSID by disabling the broadcast. This means your network name won’t appear in the list of available networks.
While it may add a layer of obscurity, it is not a reliable security measure because determined attackers can still detect hidden networks with the right tools.
What If I Forget the Router Admin Password?
If you cannot log in to your router because you forgot the admin password, you typically need to reset the router to factory defaults. This process usually involves holding down a reset button for 10-30 seconds.
Note that resetting will erase all your settings.
SSID Name Not Changing?
If after saving your new SSID the name remains the same, try the following:
- Clear your browser cache or try a different browser.
- Restart your router manually.
- Ensure you clicked “Apply,” “Save,” or “OK” after changing the SSID.
- Check if your router has multiple wireless bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and change SSID for each band if needed.
Changing SSID on Mesh Networks
For mesh Wi-Fi systems like Google Nest Wifi, Eero, or Netgear Orbi, the SSID is usually managed through a dedicated app. To change the network name:
- Open the mesh system’s app on your smartphone.
- Navigate to Network Settings or Wi-Fi Settings.
- Find the network name (SSID) field and input your new SSID.
- Save changes and allow the mesh network to update.
Keep in mind that changes may take a few minutes to propagate through the mesh nodes.
Summary
Changing your network name (SSID) is a straightforward process that can make your Wi-Fi network more recognizable, personalized, and slightly more secure by avoiding default names. It requires accessing your router’s admin panel, finding the wireless settings, and updating the SSID field.
Always remember to use strong Wi-Fi encryption and passwords to keep your network safe. After changing your SSID, reconnect all your devices to the newly named network.
Final thought: Keeping your network name unique and your security settings robust is key to maintaining a safe and efficient wireless environment.
