Changing the name of a wireless network isn't just a whim, but a necessary security and convenience measure for any home internet user. Standard factory designations, such as RT-WiFi_2G_XXXX or Sercomm_5G, often contain unnecessary technical information that's of no use to outsiders. Furthermore, using a standard name can signal to attackers that the default passwords on the router haven't been changed, leaving your home network vulnerable to attack.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the process of renaming a network (SSID) on the provider's equipment. Rostelecom. No matter what kind of router you have, Eltex, Huawei, Sagemcom or SercommThe operating principle is similar, although the interfaces may differ slightly. All you need is a computer or smartphone connected to the router and a few minutes of free time.
Before you begin setting up your network, it's important to understand that changing the network name will disconnect all connected devices. Smartphones, laptops, and TVs will have to search for your network again. and enter the password. This is a normal reaction from the equipment, as to the gadgets it will appear as a completely new access point with a new identifier.
Preparing for setup and logging into the web interface
The first step is to connect to the router. It is best to use a wired connection via LAN cable, as it ensures stability and won't be interrupted when changing WiFi settings. If this isn't possible, make sure your device (laptop or phone) is connected to the current WiFi network of the Rostelecom router.
Next, you need to open any web browser. Enter the router's IP address in the address bar. For most models, Rostelecom This 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1If none of the addresses work, check the sticker on the bottom of the device - it contains the exact address and login information. Enter your username and password (often this is admin/admin or data from the sticker).
After successful authorization, you will be redirected to the control panel. Interfaces can be "green" (old style) or "blue/black" (new style). RT). Don't be intimidated by the abundance of numbers and graphs—we're only interested in the wireless network section.
Setting up a network name on Eltex and Sercomm routers
Routers Eltex (models NTU-2, NTU-4W) and Sercomm often have similar menu logic. After logging in, find the tab Network or NetIn the side menu, select the item WLAN or WirelessThis is where the main parameters of the radio module are located.
In the window that opens, you will see a field SSID Name or Network name (SSID)This field contains the current name. Delete the old value and enter the desired name using Latin characters. Using Cyrillic (Russian letters) is not recommended, as some older devices may display them as a set of incomprehensible characters.
Why is it better to use Latin?
Some smart devices (lamps, sockets, old printers) do not support UTF-8 encoding in network names and simply will not see a network with a Russian name.
Below is a table with examples of valid characters and restrictions for the SSID field:
| Parameter | Limitation | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Name length | Up to 32 characters | Use 5-15 characters |
| Letter case | Sensitive | HomeWiFi and homewifi are different networks. |
| Special characters | Not all are allowed | Avoid spaces and the #, &, |
| Encoding | ASCII preferred | Only Latin letters AZ and numbers |
After entering the new name, be sure to click the button Apply or SaveThe router may reboot the wireless module, which will take about 10-20 seconds.
Changing the SSID on Huawei and Sagemcom routers
Devices from Huawei And Sagemcom, which are often provided by the provider, have a more modern interface. Here, WiFi settings are usually located in a separate large tab on the main screen or in the menu. WLAN. Select an item Basic Network Settings or Basic settings.
In the field SSID Name Enter a new name. A unique feature of these routers is the ability to configure the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands separately. You can name them the same (for the Smart Connect feature) or differently, for example, MyHome_24 And MyHome_5GThis will help you manually select the faster 5GHz network on compatible devices.
⚠️ Note: If you use the Guest Network feature, be sure to rename it as well, otherwise guests will see the network with a name like
Guest_1234, which looks unprofessional.
Saving your settings is done in the same way—using the button at the bottom of the page. The router will then apply the changes. Make sure your new name appears in the list of available networks on your phone.
Setting up security after a name change
Changing your network name is a great time to check and update your security settings. In the same menu where you changed the SSID, find the section Security or SecurityMake sure the encryption mode is selected. WPA2-PSK or WPA3The old WEP and WPA protocols are outdated and easily cracked.
If you haven't changed your WiFi password in a while, do so now. It should be complex and contain mixed-case letters and numbers. Write the new password down in a safe place, as you'll have to re-enter it on all your devices after changing your username and password.
Also in modern routers Rostelecom There is a function to hide the SSID. If you activate the option Hide SSID or Hide network name, your network will disappear from the general list of available connections. To connect, you'll need to manually enter the network name on each device. This creates the illusion of security, but experienced hackers can easily detect hidden networks.
☑️ WiFi Security Check
Troubleshooting connection issues
After renaming a network, users often encounter problems with devices not seeing the new network or being unable to connect. Most often, the issue lies with the DNS cache or saved profiles. Try "forgetting the network" in your phone's WiFi settings and then rediscovering it.
If your router stops distributing internet after changing settings, check to see if the MAC address binding has been lost (if filtering was used). Also, make sure you haven't specified a network name reserved by the system or one containing prohibited characters.
Sometimes a full reboot cycle helps: unplug the router, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in. Wait for the indicators to load. PON And LANIf the problem persists, you may need to reset the settings to factory settings using the button. Reset and reconfiguration from scratch.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces can be updated remotely by your ISP. If you don't see the steps described, check the official instructions for your specific model on the equipment manufacturer's website.
Optimizing wireless network performance
After renaming the network, it's worth paying attention to the broadcast channel. In apartment buildings, the airwaves are clogged with neighbors' signals. In the WLAN settings, find the option Channel and switch the mode with Auto to a specific free channel (for example, 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4 GHz). This can significantly increase speed.
For the 5 GHz band, channel selection is less critical, as it's less congested, but checking it won't hurt. Use mobile WiFi analyzer apps (e.g., WiFi Analyzer) to see which channels are free in your apartment.
Keep in mind that the router's location also affects signal quality. Try to place the device Rostelecom closer to the center of the apartment, higher from the floor and away from microwave ovens and aquariums, which interfere with the signal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to use Russian letters in a WiFi network name?
Technically, many routers allow you to enter Cyrillic characters, but this is a bad practice. Older smartphones, smartwatches, and smart home devices may display Russian letters incorrectly (like gibberish) or not see the network at all. Use only Latin characters.
Will I lose internet access on other devices if I change my name?
Yes, the connection will be lost on all devices connected to the old network. You'll need to reselect the new network name from the WiFi list and enter the password. This applies to phones, TVs, laptops, and smart speakers.
What should I do if I forgot my router password after changing the name?
If you changed your WiFi password and forgot it, but need to connect urgently, the only way out is to reset the router using the button Reset Factory settings. After that, you'll have to reconfigure your internet connection (using the login and password from your contract).
Does the length of a network name affect internet speed?
No, the length of the SSID name does not affect data transfer speed or connection stability. However, extremely long names (close to the 32-character limit) may appear awkwardly in network lists on small device screens.
Do I need to reconfigure my internet after changing my WiFi name?
No, your ISP connection settings (PPPoE, VLAN, etc.) are not affected when you rename your wireless network. Your internet connection will continue to work; only the access point ID will change.