What is the primary use of a service set identifier (SSID) in WLANs?

The primary use of a service set identifier (SSID) in WLANs is to identify the wireless network to users. An SSID is a unique name assigned to a wireless network, allowing devices to distinguish between multiple networks in the vicinity. When a user attempts to connect to a wireless network, they select the network based on its SSID. This makes it crucial for both the organization operating the network and users trying to access it, as it helps avoid confusion with similarly named networks and ensures that users connect to the correct one.

The SSID acts as a network identifier, and it can be broadcasted or hidden. When broadcasted, devices scan for available networks and present a list of SSIDs for users to choose from. If hidden, users must know the exact SSID to connect, thereby adding a layer of obscurity for security.

While there are other functionalities such as authentication and routing protocols in WLANs, these do not directly pertain to the primary purpose of the SSID. The channel bandwidth is related to the wireless standard and frequency used, while authentication and routing processes occur after a device identifies and attempts to connect to a network through its SSID. Thus, the identification of the wireless network by its SSID is fundamental in WLAN operations