WiFi network names, also known as SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers), are how devices recognize and connect to wireless networks. Sometimes, users notice an unexpected “X” or other unusual characters appended to their WiFi names.
This can cause confusion or frustration when trying to connect or identify the correct network.
Understanding why this “X” appears and how to remove it requires some knowledge of your router’s settings and the technology behind WiFi networks. This guide will walk you through the reasons behind the “X,” common causes, and detailed steps to remove it.
What Does the “X” on Your WiFi Name Mean?
The “X” appended to your WiFi name can have different meanings depending on the router manufacturer, firmware, or device behavior. It is not a universal standard but often serves as an indicator or placeholder.
“The presence of an ‘X’ on a WiFi name is usually a sign that the network is operating on a specific band, is a guest network, or has been auto-renamed by the router or connected devices.”
Here are some common interpretations of the “X” on WiFi names:
- Band Indicator: Some routers add “X” or a similar suffix to differentiate 5 GHz networks from 2.4 GHz networks.
- Guest Network: Routers sometimes append characters like “X” to mark guest access points.
- Device Interference: Certain devices or software might rename the SSID temporarily.
- Default or Placeholder Names: Routers may use “X” as part of default SSID naming conventions.
Why Does the WiFi Name Change Automatically?
Automatic changes to your WiFi name, including adding an “X,” usually happen due to firmware settings or router features designed to help users identify networks more easily. Sometimes, it’s related to:
- Dual-band routers: To differentiate between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
- Mesh network systems: They may add suffixes to distinguish nodes.
- Router software updates: Firmware upgrades might reset or modify SSID names.
- Default naming conventions: ISPs or manufacturers may apply default names with special characters.
In most cases, the “X” is harmless but can be changed if you prefer a clean or custom SSID.
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove “X” from Your WiFi Name
Changing your WiFi name is straightforward once you access your router’s admin panel. Follow these steps carefully:
Connect to Your Router
You need to be connected to your home network (either via WiFi or Ethernet cable) to access the router’s settings.
Tip: Using a wired connection during this process is recommended to avoid connection drops.
Access the Router Admin Panel
Open your web browser and enter your router’s IP address into the address bar. Common router IPs include:
| Router Brand | Default IP Address |
|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 |
| Netgear | 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 |
| Linksys | 192.168.1.1 |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 |
| ASUS | 192.168.1.1 |
If unsure of your router’s IP:
- On Windows, open Command Prompt and type
ipconfig. Look for the “Default Gateway” under your active network adapter. - On Mac, open Terminal and type
netstat -nr | grep defaultor check your network settings.
Log Into the Router
Once the admin page loads, you will be prompted to enter a username and password. By default, many routers use:
| Username | Password |
|---|---|
| admin | admin |
| admin | password |
| (blank) | admin |
Important: If you have changed the password before, use your custom credentials. If you forgot them, you may need to reset the router to factory settings.
Locate Wireless Settings
After logging in, navigate to the wireless or WiFi settings section. The exact location varies by manufacturer but is usually labeled as:
- Wireless Settings
- WiFi Settings
- Network > Wireless
- SSID Configuration
Here, you will see your current SSID(s) listed for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
Edit Your WiFi Name(s)
Click the field showing the current WiFi name containing the “X.” Simply delete the “X” or rename the SSID to whatever you prefer.
Note: Some routers display separate SSIDs for different bands. Make sure to update both if you want consistency.
Save Changes and Reboot
After editing, find the Save or Apply button and click it. Your router may reboot automatically or prompt you to restart.
Once rebooted, your WiFi name should no longer display the unwanted “X.”
Troubleshooting and Additional Tips
WiFi Name Still Shows “X” After Change?
Sometimes, changes don’t take effect immediately or get overridden by other settings. Try the following:
- Clear your device’s saved networks and reconnect to the new SSID.
- Restart your device to clear cached WiFi information.
- Check if your router has a guest network active with the “X” in its name.
- Disable any automatic band-steering or network optimization features that rename SSIDs.
What if the Router Doesn’t Allow SSID Changes?
Some ISP-provided routers have locked firmware restricting SSID modifications. In this case, you can:
- Contact your ISP and request a firmware update or unlock.
- Use a third-party router that allows full control.
- Set up your own router behind the ISP device and customize your WiFi.
Using a Mesh Network or Extender?
Mesh systems often manage SSIDs automatically to maintain seamless coverage. To remove the “X”:
- Access your mesh system’s app or admin panel.
- Look for network or node naming options.
- Rename the network appropriately.
- Restart mesh nodes if necessary.
Security Considerations When Renaming WiFi Networks
While removing the “X” or customizing your SSID improves aesthetics, it’s important to keep security in mind.
- Avoid personal information: Don’t use your full name, address, or phone number in the SSID.
- Use strong encryption: Always enable WPA3 or WPA2 with a strong password.
- Change default passwords: Never keep default admin passwords on your router.
- Disable WPS: WiFi Protected Setup can be vulnerable to attacks.
Proper security settings protect your network regardless of what your SSID looks like.
Summary Table: Reasons for “X” in WiFi Name and Solutions
| Reason for “X” | Description | How to Remove |
|---|---|---|
| Band Differentiator | Indicates 5 GHz network or dual-band setup | Rename SSID in router settings for each band |
| Guest Network | Separate guest WiFi with unique SSID | Disable guest network or rename it |
| Router Default Naming | Manufacturer or ISP default SSID naming | Change SSID manually via router admin panel |
| Firmware or Software Auto-Rename | Router auto-updates or mesh systems rename SSID | Update firmware, disable auto-rename, or reset router |
| Device or App Interference | Connected devices modifying network visibility | Check connected devices and forget/reconnect networks |
Final Thoughts
Removing the “X” from your WiFi name is primarily about personal preference and clarity. While it may seem like a minor detail, a clean, recognizable SSID helps avoid connectivity confusion and improves your network management experience.
Always remember to keep your router’s firmware updated and maintain proper security practices to ensure your WiFi network remains safe and reliable.
“Your WiFi name is the first impression of your network — make it clear, secure, and uniquely yours.”
If you follow the steps outlined here, you should be able to remove any unwanted “X” from your WiFi SSID quickly and easily.
