A Look at the Different Important Aspects of Service Set Identifier (SSID)

The term service sets refers to different kinds of devices that are used in computers, specifically those that are connected to particular enterprise or local 802.11 wireless local area networks (LANs). One of the interrelated terms commonly associated with service sets is service set identifier or SSID. Although many people do not know what this thing is all about, it does not mean that it is unimportant. For a better and clearer understanding of this highly significant computer term, it is good to look at the various important aspects of SSID.

The Basic Function of SSID

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SSID is primarily a name used to identify a specific 802.11 wireless LAN. In this type of process, a client device commonly gets broadcast messages from every access point available that is within range advertising its SSID. When this happens, the client device has the option to choose a network with which to connect based on configuration. This can actually be done either automatically or manually. It is possible for every SSID to have 32 characters. An SSID is normally comprised of characters that are readable because it is commonly displayed to users. Despite this given fact, it is not considered as SSID standard.

Computer experts define SSID as a sequence of 1-32 octets, each character of which may take any kind of value even though unreadable. Sharing the same SSID is considered legitimate for multiple access points especially if they are designed to offer access to a similar network as an extended service. In addition, the practice of broadcasting multiple SSIDs are supported by some wireless access points, which then allows the formation of Virtual Access Points. Although not considered as a standard, this process includes the partitioning of one physical access point into various virtual points, with each having a unique set of network and security settings.

Additional Facts and Other Interesting Details

Aside from the SSID, it is also important to take note of the BSS, which stands for basic service set. This is actually one of the basic building blocks of an IEEE 802.11 wireless LAN. A standard BSS is comprised a single access point combined with various associated stations, which is true particularly in the case of a wireless LAN operating in an infrastructure mode.

In the case of an independent basic service set or IBSS, creating an ad-hoc network comprised of client devices is possible even without an Access Point. In addition to this, another interrelated service set is called an extended service set or ESSID, which is primarily made up of interconnected basic service sets with a common SSID.

A Look at the Different Important Aspects of Service Set Identifier (SSID)