When a device first connects to a network, the initial action it performs is to find and select the network, then authenticate by entering the network password if required. After this, the device attempts to establish a connection by obtaining an IP address and other network configuration details, typically via DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). This process allows the device to communicate within the network and access resources or the internet
. More specifically:
- The device scans for available networks and selects the desired one by its SSID (network name)
- If the network is secured, the device provides the password or security key to authenticate
- The device then requests network configuration, including an IP address, from the network's DHCP server to enable communication
- Once connected, the device confirms the connection and can start sending or receiving data
In some cases, especially with smart or Internet-connected devices, the first thing after connecting is to check for firmware updates or change default credentials to secure the device before use
. Thus, the very first thing a device does when it connects to a network is to identify and authenticate itself to the network, followed by obtaining necessary network parameters to enable communication.
Summary
- Find and select the network (SSID)
- Authenticate by entering password if needed
- Obtain IP address and network settings (usually via DHCP)
- Confirm connection and start communication
- (Optional for smart devices) Download updates and secure device credentials
