How do I connect a Mobile Link device to my home network if my SSID is hidden?

This article helps troubleshoot why your Wi-Fi network might not appear during setup and offers alternative connection methods.

Environment

This article applies to Generac home standby generators with the Onboard Wi-Fi Device or Wi-Fi/Ethernet Device. For up-to-date information about currently available Mobile Link Connectivity Devices and compatibility, see: Mobile Link Wi-Fi, Cellular, and LTE device compatibility guide.

Note: Meeting the network requirements outlined in this article will resolve most connectivity issues. However, upgrading to the Connectivity Cellular Accessory is recommended for users who wish to add connectivity to their generator or users experiencing ongoing connectivity issues. It is compatible with more generators, and uses multiple carrier networks to offer greater coverage. Basic (free) and Premium cellular plans are available this device. See here to upgrade: Connectivity Cellular Accessory.

Why can't I see my Wi-Fi network as an available network while going through the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connection process?

There are a few common reasons your Wi-Fi network might not appear during setup:

• Your router is set to hide (not broadcast) the network’s SSID.

• The network uses a frequency band (such as 5 GHz only) that the generator’s Wi-Fi module doesn’t support.

• The Wi-Fi signal is too weak or unstable near the generator’s location.

• Network security settings or configurations may be incompatible with the Mobile Link device.

Following the troubleshooting steps below can help resolve these issues.

Troubleshooting steps

If you have tried the recommended setup process in the Mobile Link for Generators app, with more information available here: How do I connect my generator to a home Wi-Fi network?, and your network still doesn’t appear, follow these steps:

1. Verify in your router settings that your Wi-Fi SSID is visible and not set to hidden.
2. Verify your network meets the Generator's compatibility requirements: Is My Wi-Fi Network Compatible With Mobile Link?

Note: Mobile Link Wi-Fi devices operate exclusively on the 2.4 GHz frequency band and are optimized for performance when connected to a dedicated 2.4 GHz network SSID. 

3. Try connecting again using the Mobile Link for Generator's app.
4. If the network still isn't shown, try the Legacy (IP) Method, a manual setup process using a web browser: Connect a generator to a home Wi-Fi network using a web browser (legacy method)

Note: If the connection is successful using the Legacy Method after your network was not shown as an available network during the in-app setup, this indicates your network’s compatibility or signal strength needs improvement, especially if the signal strength is less than 35% or unstable.