##Windows 8/8.1 Hidden SSID Fix
There exists an issue in Windows 8 & Windows 8.1 when attempting to use networks with hidden SSIDs. The failings of using hidden SSIDs is a discussion for another time, but sometimes it’s necessary to regularly use one (ie: at locations that believe it increases security). The problem is, on Win8, these networks don’t seem to be retained, and one can find themselves needing to remove, and re-add the connection everytime they attempt to connect.
The issue, it turns out, is simply that the “start network connection automatically” and “connect even if the network is not broadcasting” settings don’t actually do anything. It is necessary to drill further down into the network connection, and apply the Windows 7 style settings to force the network to connect when available. The process is as follows:
Add the network through “Connect to a Network”, input the SSID and any settings, feel free to check the checkboxes to allow it to connect by default, they won’t do anything anyway. Click add, and the network should connect. If need be, navigate to the Win8 wireless connections menu by clicking on the icon on your taskbard, and force connect.
Now, navigate to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings and double click on your wireless connection. Click Wireless Properties. You will see that none of the automatic connection settings have been checked:
Click the checkbox for “Connect automatically when network is in range” and “Connect even if the network is not broadcasting its name (SSID)” and click OK
Your hidden network will now connect automatically as was standard in Windows 7