What does SSID stand for in networking?

SSID stands for Service Set Identifier in networking. It is a unique name that identifies a particular wireless network. This identifier enables devices to connect to the correct network by broadcasting the SSID, allowing users to distinguish one wireless network from another. The SSID can be up to 32 characters long and typically is set by the network administrator.

When devices search for available wireless networks, they display the SSIDs of the networks that they can detect. This allows users to select the specific network they want to connect to. The SSID is a fundamental aspect of wireless networking because it helps to manage connections and maintain network security, allowing devices to connect to the correct access point without confusion.