must broadcast network name to connect

Roby electricalsciences at adelphia.net
Fri Jun 15 00:20:46 UTC 2007


Default User wrote:

> Okay, I am stumped.
> 
> Using Ubuntu 7.04 (no special or exotic setup), I can connect
> automatically to my DSL modem/router if the "network name" (aka SSID,
> aka ESSID) is broadcast, whether encryption is on or off.
> 
> But if the network name, for example 93PRINCETON97 is NOT broadcast,
> Network Manager will not connect, whether encryption is on or off.
> Clicking the Network Manager Icon shows the signal bar graph for the
> router, with a sufficient signal, but a blank space where the network
> name would be if broadcast.
> 
> I have tried cicking the blank name bar graph, clicking the Network Name
> icon and entering in the dialog box the network name in uppercase and
> lowercase, with and without single and double parentheses, with
> parentheses and blank spaces, and even left it completely blank, etc.
> Each time, Network Manager "searches" for about 30 seconds and then
> gives up.
> 
> I could just leave the network name set to always broadcast by default,
> but for security reasons I do not want to broadcast it at all, and
> should not have to.
> 
> Does anyone know why the only way to connect is to broadcast the network
> name?
I don't know why Network Manager is doing such a sensible thing.  If it 
allowed you to run with ssid broadcast off, you would have a much better
chance of having a neighbor set up shop on "your" channel ... causing you
both to have network difficulties.

Broadcasting your ssid is a GOOD IDEA: it lessens the chance of accidental
doubling up on a channel.

Not broadcasting ssid offers pitifully little security.  Readily available
tools like Kismet aren't fooled.





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