TLDR: I ran into a perplexing problem lately. I recently acquired some MCU32 devices with a variant of ESP32home on it. These devices had all kinds of connectivity problems on my home network. I started tampering with what band my WiFi devices were on, what AP they were using, and which frequency they hopped to. I found, that hidden SSIDs and WiFi devices do not cooperate well as most designers seem to think that one should scan for WiFi rather than actively search for it.
Longer Explanation
IoT devices, or Internet of Things devices, have become an integral part of modern households and businesses, offering convenience and automation. However, when it comes to the interaction between IoT devices and hidden SSIDs (Service Set Identifiers), issues can arise that hinder seamless connectivity and functionality. Hidden SSIDs are wireless network names that are not broadcasted openly, adding a layer of security through obscurity. While this might seem like a good idea for protecting your network, it can lead to compatibility and usability challenges with IoT devices.
Firstly, hidden SSIDs often pose compatibility problems for IoT devices that may not be designed to handle such network configurations. Many IoT devices are built with simplified network setups in mind, assuming that networks will be openly broadcasted. When faced with a hidden SSID, these devices might struggle to locate and connect to the network, resulting in frustrating setup processes or even complete incompatibility.
Secondly, hidden SSIDs can impede the ease of connecting new IoT devices to the network. Most IoT devices lack a conventional user interface like a computer or smartphone, making it difficult to manually input a hidden network’s name and credentials. This hurdle can lead to prolonged setup times, increased complexity, and an overall less user-friendly experience for individuals attempting to integrate their IoT devices into their network.
Thirdly, hidden SSIDs can introduce reliability issues with IoT devices. Since hidden networks require devices to actively search for and locate the network, there is a potential for increased latency and occasional disconnects. This can be especially problematic for time-sensitive IoT applications, such as home security systems or real-time monitoring, where uninterrupted connectivity is crucial.
Lastly, maintaining and troubleshooting hidden SSIDs in conjunction with IoT devices can be more challenging. When issues arise, diagnosing problems can be complicated due to the lack of visibility of the network name itself. Network administrators may find it harder to identify and rectify connectivity problems, leading to longer downtimes and potential frustrations.
In conclusion, while hidden SSIDs may offer an extra layer of network security, they do not always play well with IoT devices. Compatibility, setup complexity, reliability concerns, and troubleshooting difficulties can all arise from the combination of hidden SSIDs and IoT devices. As IoT technology continues to evolve, it’s important to consider the trade-offs between security and usability to ensure a seamless and efficient user experience.