📎 AI Summary:
The user reports an issue where certain Wi-Fi networks are not detectable on their Windows 10 laptop, appearing as "Hidden Networks," while their phone can see them. Despite updating network drivers and seeking assistance from HP support, the problem persists. Another contributor explains that networks are either visible or hidden and suggests that compatibility issues, such as unsupported wireless standards or frequency ranges, could be causing the problem; the user intends to verify the network standards. Overall, the discussion centers on troubleshooting hidden Wi-Fi networks, with suggestions pointing toward hardware or standard support limitations.
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ScottDarryl

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Apr 23, 2019
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Thread Author #1
Hi,
I've recently found an issue where some open networks are not being discovered by my laptop but can be seen by my phone. I suspect on the laptop they are being shown as "Hidden Network" as this appears on the laptop but not the phone
I first discovered this issue when trying to use at a particular Starbucks, but now I'm seeing this at other locations too.

I'm on Windows 10 Home edition.
Have updated the drivers in all adapters within Device Manager-Network Adapters .

Even HP (laptop manufacturer) help couldn't resolve the issue.

Any thoughts or tips?
 

Solution
Neemobeer
Networks would either be hidden (not broadcasting SSID) or not there is no in between. It's more likely a physical incompatibility.

  1. Wireless networks can operate in the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz ranges, if a network is on one of those ranges and your wireless NIC doesn't support that range it won't be visible
  2. If your wireless NIC does not support a standard and the wireless network is on that standard. 802.11a,b,g,n,ac,ad,au,ax
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Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#2
Networks would either be hidden (not broadcasting SSID) or not there is no in between. It's more likely a physical incompatibility.

  1. Wireless networks can operate in the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz ranges, if a network is on one of those ranges and your wireless NIC doesn't support that range it won't be visible
  2. If your wireless NIC does not support a standard and the wireless network is on that standard. 802.11a,b,g,n,ac,ad,au,ax
 
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