The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for identifying at least one of one or more hidden and visible networks associated with an access point. The method comprises detecting whether a Wi-Fi network is hidden behind a first visible network of the at least one of one or more hidden and visible networks associated with the access point, and if so, selecting the Wi-Fi network to connect an authorized user to a wireless local area network while retaining an ability to select a second visible network from the at least one of one or more hidden and visible networks. In a client-server based communication system, the Wi-Fi network information of visible access points in a particular range may be automatically retrieved. In addition, by defining a group of networks belonging to an access point, and combining the groups of other access points in the vicinity of the client, a hidden network may be selected without an additional knowledge or processing by the authorized user. This may enable network operators or service providers to reorganize the Wi-Fi network infrastructure as desired and may enable authorized users or client software to detect and select a hidden network, regardless of organization of networks in the vicinity of the client.

 
Web www.patentalert.com

< Facilitating DSLAM-hosted traffic management functionality

> Decision tree logic for determining the optimal value for QoS uplink and downlink maximum bitrate attributes

> Method of adjusting a power level of communications over a channel in a wirelss communications network

~ 00575