Where Can I Find the SSID on my Linksys Router?

Your router’s SSID is important in helping you to maintain your network’s security among other things. With it, you will be able to set your network apart from all the rest around you. So, how should you go about locating it?

Every router comes with a unique SSID (Service Set Identifier), and Linksys devices are no exception. Whenever the router is on, it should automatically display the SSID so that nearby gadgets such as phones, tablets, computers, televisions and others can easily pick it up for a connection. When your router fails to display its SSID, it is an indication that there is a problem that needs attention. So, where can you find your Linksys router’s SSID? You can find your Linksys Router’s SSID on a sticker placed strategically on your router. Internet Service Providers will almost always have a sticker on the router that has its default SSID printed on it. Usually, it is located at the bottom of the router, but you can also find it on the back or side panels. This is the easiest and most direct way of finding you router’s default SSID. 

However, it is possible that your router does not have this sticker on it, making it difficult to identify the SSID. Below is another easy but slightly longer method of finding your router’s SSID. 

How to find your router’s SSID on the Linksys web-based set up page

Step 1: Open the Linksys web-based set up page

• Go on your default web browser and, on the search bar, key in 192.168.1.1 and press Enter. 

• Once the set up page is open, enter your username and password. The default password is admin, but in case you had changed it, proceed to key in your new password.

Step 2: Find the manual wireless settings

• On the open Linksys web-based setup page, find a field labelled Wireless and click on it.

• Once you click on the field, you will see a smaller pop up just under Wireless labelled Basic Wireless Settings.

• You will then see two fields called Manual and Wireless. Proceed to select Manual. 

Step 3: Locate your router’s SSID

• Once you have selected the Manual field, go on and find Network Name (SSID). You can, at this point, change the SSID or maintain it as it is. 

• In case you change the SSID, be sure to click on the Save Changes field just under the settings. 

• You can note down the SSID somewhere easy to access in case you will need it in the future.

As earlier mentioned, your Linksys router may fail to broadcast its SSID, and this could be an indicator of an issue that will need handling. Below are some of the reasons why your SSID may be impossible to see, and how to go about fixing them. 

Why your router will not display SSID and how to fix

SSID broadcast could be disabled

One of the main reasons why your SSID could be staying hidden is the broadcast settings. You could have changed them unknowingly so that your service set identifier stays hidden all the time. To get rid of this problem, follow the steps outlined below. 

• Just below your router’s SSID on the web based set up page, find a field labelled SSID broadcast.
• There will be two options available which are Enable and Disable. Proceed to click on Enabled.
• In case you find that the setting is already enabled, you can try clicking on Disabled and then Enabled again. Wait for the router to then display its SSID. 
• Proceed to click on Save Changes after enabling SID broadcast. 

Your network could be disabled or disconnected

While the problem could seem overly technical and demanding of professional fixing, it could just be something as simple as poor connection. Make sure that your router is connected to the internet by checking the cables from the modem to the router, and from the ISP to the modem. You can also try placing the router closer to the modem to make sure that there is uninterrupted internet connection.

Your router needs a restart

When you have had your modem working for months without ever restarting it, you may have trouble getting it to do certain things. Your router may require ‘rest’. All you need to do is disconnect all devices that are connected to the router, both via cable and wirelessly, then proceed to switch the router off. You can wait a couple seconds, or a minute or two, then power it back on. Reconnect your devices, then proceed to find the SSID on the web based setup page. 

Router firmware could be outdated

Your router’s functions are kept efficient by updates since they upgrade the security and also allow it to receive better software for smoother running. if it has been a while since you last updated your router, go on and initiate an update. You will find that the router works more efficiently, and that finding your SSID is easier. 

To change or not to change your Linksys router SSID?

While it may not be an issue of concern for many router owners, changing your SSID can actually improve your network’s privacy and security. It is important to note that many Linksys (and other brand) router users often times get the same SSID. This means that other users can access your router, especially when they use the same default password as everybody else. For this reason, it is recommended that you change your SSID and password. 

How to fix your router when it will not display SSID

Possible problem	Recommended solution
Disabled SSID broadcast	Change your broadcast settings to Enabled
Poor internet connection	Make sure that your router is receiving internet transmission properly
Router needs ‘rest’	Restart router and search for SSID again
Outdated firmware	Update your router’s firmware and restart

Conclusion

When trying to find your router’s SSID, begin by searching for a sticker on the base or side panel of the device, and if you find that it is not there, go on and use the web based et up page. If you can, change the SSID and password for better security and privacy, especially when you live around people who use the same routers or ISP as you. 

FAQs

How do I restore the default SSID and password to my Linksys router?

You can do this by resetting the router. All factory settings will be restored.

Do I need to reboot if I change the SSID and password?

Your router should reboot automatically, but you can reboot it manually in case it fails to restart on its own.