Connecting Windows 8, 8.1, or 10 computers to a hidden network

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:

Wireless Network Name (SSID)
Password or Keyphrase

Select your computer's operating system (OS) below to learn how to connect your computers to a hidden network.

Windows 10
Windows 8/ 8.1

Windows 10

Step 1:
On your Windows 10 computer, click the wireless icon at the bottom right corner of your screen to show the list of available wireless networks .

Step 2:
Scroll down, select Hidden network and click Connect.

NOTE: You can check Connect automatically if you want the computer to automatically connect to the hidden network each time it is within range.

Step 3:
Enter the name of the network or SSID then click Next.

NOTE: In the image below, Home Network is used as an example of a network name or SSID.

Step 4:
Enter the network security key or password then click Next.

NOTE: The password is case-sensitive.

There will be a prompt to turn on sharing between computers and connect to devices within the network. Select your preferred configuration to continue.

Step 6:

Wait while the computer checks the network requirements and connects to the network.

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.

Windows 8/ 8.1

Step 1:
Click the Desktop tile that is pinned on the Start screen.

Step 2:
Click the wireless icon at the bottom right corner of your screen to allow the list of available wireless networks to show up then click Hidden network.

Step 3:
Click the Connect button.

NOTE: You can 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 name of the network or SSID then click Next.

NOTE: In the image below, “invisible” is used as an example of a network name or 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 moments while the computer is trying to connect to the network.

There will be a prompt to turn on sharing between computers and connect to devices within the network. Select your preferred configuration to continue.

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.