SSID

SSID (Service Set IDentifier) is the network name in the wireless connections. It is independent of Work Group used by small network using Windows. This identifier allows you to manage various networks WIFI in the same space.

Hiding the SSID is a level of protection for wireless networks (even if Vista detects it automatically, without displaying the name). Even protected by a network key WEP or WAP, each access point sends its own SSID, enabling computers to detect the WAN and various software can "hack" Wifi networks. Often used in Ad-hoc, this solution poses some problems in connection Infrastructure Mode (this requires setting the access point) since the station must first know the name. This solution is more sensitive to unwanted disconnections.

Another security method is based on the MAC address, protection much more difficult to pass.

Related terms: Bluetooth - ISM - WLAN - WDS (interconnection networks) - Wifi standards