Do you have a wireless router at home providing handy Wi-Fi access to connect your devices? If so, you likely just use the random default network name it came preprogrammed with by the manufacturer. But customizing your Wi-Fi name can make it easier to identify and access for devices, while also boosting your network security.
In this straight-forward guide, you‘ll learn what a Wi-Fi name means, why renaming it is beneficial, and how to easily change it in just 7 quick steps. Along the way, you‘ll pick up some best practices for keeping your wireless network safe and accessible. So let‘s get started!
What is a Wi-Fi Network Name?
Every wireless router broadcasts a single SSID, or Service Set Identifier. This is essentially the name of the Wi-Fi network that devices detect when scanning for available connections.
Router manufacturers pre-configure these names during production. So out of the box, your home Wi-Fi SSID is likely a random string of letters and numbers like NETGEAR24 or linksys181.
But just like naming a pet or Bluetooth accessory, you can customize this wireless name to be more user-friendly.
Why Personalize Your Network Name?
Here are 3 compelling reasons to ditch the dull default and change your Wi-Fi network name:
Easier Identification – Referencing "Smith_Network" is simpler than rattling off jumbled alphanumerics when guests need to connect devices or troubleshoot problems.
Enhanced Security – Studies estimate over 21 million households in the US use untouched default wireless router names and passwords. This makes them low-hanging fruit for hackers port scanning neighborhoods. Custom names logically attract less attention.
Personalization – Put your own stamp on your wireless environment! Network names can represent favorite sports teams, TV shows, family names, or inside jokes.
Now that you know the value of rolling your own Wi-Fi name, let‘s run through how to change it quickly in just 7 steps.
Step 1: Connect to Your Network
First, make sure the device you are using is connected to the internet via your existing Wi-Fi network or ethernet cable…
[Content truncated for brevity]Key Takeaways
- Custom Wi-Fi names are easier to access and marginally safer.
- The router admin interface allows changing of default network name.
- Simply reboot after updating settings to broadcast the new SSID.
- Strong network passwords still crucial to security.
I hope this advice gives you the confidence to personalize your wireless environment. Please reach out below if you have any other questions on modifying network settings to best suit your needs!
