If you have a home wireless network then you're probably familiar with the SSID field, and most wireless routers offer the option to hide the SSID for increased security. But is this really worth it?
When it comes to computers in general, and wireless networks specifically, I prefer to have as strong a security as possible. So I always use the most secure encryption and long complex passwords. By the same token I would choose to hide my SSID (or network name). I would never rely on a hidden SSID alone, as security through obscurity is not sufficient. But is a hidden SSID really any more secure? I've recently found programs like Inssider that will show you all networks in range, whether or not they are broadcasting their SSID. So a hidden SSID does not mean no one else can see your network nor does it mean they can't try and hack in.
So a hidden SSID is not any more secure. And as it turns out, a hidden SSID has negative side-effects.
1. Connection time
When your laptop, phone, tablet, etc. connects to the network it can actually take longer. This is because the device has to try additional tests to make sure the hidden network is indeed the network it's trying to connect to.
2. Battery life
It sounds odd at first, but hidden networks can actually use up more battery in your device. Your device is constantly searching for hidden networks that match the list of known hidden networks and trying to cnnect to them. This consumes processing power and wastes precious battery life.
Given this I've recently switched from hidden SSIDs to publicly visible SSIDs. Since the SSID is visible, I would make a recommendation. Don't put your name and/or street address in the SSID. If someone else sees a network "JamesSmith" or "17ElmStreet" then they know exactly whose network it is. Choose something obscure like "DeathStar" or "CherrySoda."
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