Hidden networks are types of wireless networks which have their SSID broadcast disabled. This means that the wireless network name of the router will not show on the list of available networks whenever a wireless device or computer searches for networks within range.
Make sure to have the correct wireless settings of the network that you want to connect before proceeding:
Make sure to have the correct wireless settings of the network that you want to connect before proceeding:
-
Wireless network name (SSID)
-
Network security key, passphrase, or password
When ready, select the Windows operating system applicable to you:
Windows® 10
Windows® 8 / 8.1
Windows® 10
Windows® 10
Windows® 8 / 8.1
Windows® 10
Step 1:
Click the Wireless
icon on the system tray of your Desktop screen. The list of available wireless networks will appear.

QUICK TIP: Quickly navigate to your Desktop by pressing the Windows
key + D on your keyboard.


Step 2:
Select Hidden Network at the bottom of the list then click Connect.

Step 3:
Enter the name (SSID) for the network then click Next.

Step 4:
Enter the network security key or password then click Next.
NOTE: The password is case-sensitive.

Step 5:
You will be asked if you want to enable network discovery between the devices in your network. If you are setting up a home or work network, select Yes.

Step 1:
Press the Windows

Step 2:
Click the wireless

Step 3:
Select Hidden network from the bottom of the list then click the Connect button.


NOTE: Check Connect automatically if you want the computer to automatically connect to the hidden network each time it is within range.
Step 4:
Enter the network name (SSID) then click Next.

NOTE: In the image above, invisible is used as an example of an SSID.
Step 5:
Enter the network security key or password then click Next.

NOTE: The password is case-sensitive.
Step 6:
Wait for a few seconds while the computer is trying to connect to the network.

You will be asked if you want to enable sharing between the devices in your network. If you are setting up a home network, select Yes, turn on sharing and connect to devices.

QUICK TIP: It is not recommended to turn on sharing between computers if the network is a public network since it will put your computer at risk of unauthorized access.
The screen will then display a confirmation that the computer has been successfully connected to the network.

Your computer is now successfully connected to the hidden network.
Connecting your mobile devices to the wireless network
It is also possible to connect your mobile devices to your wireless network. Click on the links below to learn how:
iPad®
iPhone®
Android™ smartphone
Android™ tablet
Related Articles:
Connecting to a Hidden Wireless Network using the Linksys Wireless Manager
Connecting to a hidden wireless network using the Linksys Wireless Network Monitor
Connecting your Windows® 8, 8.1, or 10 operating system computers to the wireless network
Enabling and personalizing the HomeGroup and Sharing settings in Windows 8 or Windows 8.1
It is also possible to connect your mobile devices to your wireless network. Click on the links below to learn how:
iPad®
iPhone®
Android™ smartphone
Android™ tablet
Related Articles:
Connecting to a Hidden Wireless Network using the Linksys Wireless Manager
Connecting to a hidden wireless network using the Linksys Wireless Network Monitor
Connecting your Windows® 8, 8.1, or 10 operating system computers to the wireless network
Enabling and personalizing the HomeGroup and Sharing settings in Windows 8 or Windows 8.1