How to Connect to a Hidden Network

This guide will show how to connect to a hidden Wi-Fi network via the Settings app and the Control Panel on Windows 11.

How Do You Connect to a Hidden Network in Windows 11?

A hidden network is a wireless network configured not to broadcast its network's name, essentially hiding from the public's eye. Since these networks don't broadcast their names, it's harder for unwanted users to attempt to connect to them and, this security by obscurity creates an extra layer of protection.

To join a hidden Wi-Fi network, you will need the network's credentials, which includes:

• The name of the network.
• The network's security type, like WEP and WPA2.
• And the security key, which is the password.

You will have to ask the network admin for the credentials. Once you have it, you can log in to a hidden network using either of the following methods.

Connecting via the Settings

1. Click the Windows icon on the bottom bar or tap the Windows key on your keyboard to bring up the Start menu.
   

2. Click the Settings icon to open up the Settings menu.
   

3. Scroll down to Network & internet.
   

4. Click the Wi-Fi tab.
   

5. Click Manage known networks.
   

6. Click the Add network button on the right side of Add a new network.
   

7. Enter the name, security type, and security key information the network admin supplied to you and click Save.
   

   Tip

   It’s recommend you tick the Connect automatically box underneath the security key so you won't have to input the information again every time you log in.

8. If you did not select Connect automatically, close the Settings app and open up the Quick Settings menu by clicking on the Wi-fi icon in the bottom corner.
   

9. Click the right facing arrow next to the Wi-Fi tab.
   

10. Locate the newly created entry.
    

11. Tap Connect.
    

Connecting via Control Panel

Another way to get connected is through your Control Panel on Windows 11. Here's how that works.

1. Click the magnifying glass icon on the bottom bar to bring up the search bar.
   

2. In the search bar, type Control Panel and select the app when it appears.
   

3. When the Control Panel appears, click View network status and tasks underneath Network and internet.
   

4. In the new window, select Set up a new connection or network. A small window will appear.
   

5. Choose Manually connect to a wireless network then click Next.
   

6. In the new window, enter the security information for your Wi-Fi network.
   

   Tip

   It’s recommended you select Start this connection automatically so you won't have to input the information again every time you log in.

7. After the information has been added, click Next.
   

8. A window will appear stating you have successfully added the hidden network.
   

9. If you didn’t choose connect automatically, click the Wi-Fi icon in the bottom corner.
   

10. Click on the arrow next to the Wi-Fi symbol.
    

11. Locate the network you just created then click the Connect button once you find it.
    

    Important

    You may find an option called Connect even if this network is not broadcasting. Exercise caution choosing this option because it may put your privacy at risk and even drain your battery.