3.3.2. SSIDs and Network Types

SSID (Service Set Identifier): The wireless network name clients connect to.

Network Types:

• BSS (Basic Service Set): Single AP serving clients
• ESS (Extended Service Set): Multiple APs sharing the same SSID for roaming
• IBSS (Independent BSS): Peer-to-peer/ad-hoc network without AP
• BSSID: The MAC address of the AP radio serving a BSS. In an ESS every AP shares the SSID, but each radio has its own BSSID

SSID Broadcasting: By default, APs broadcast their SSID in beacons. Hiding the SSID provides minimal security (easily discovered: the name still travels in clear text in probe requests, probe responses and association requests whenever a client connects) but may be required for regulatory or organizational policy.

Band Steering: Automatically moves capable clients to 5 GHz band, reducing 2.4 GHz congestion.