My wifi is broadcasting two different network names at the same time

[#1]

My internet speed got slow recently. I did some troubleshooting, the usual stuff: checked the cables, tinkered with the settings, etc. I also used Wifi Analyser to look up the least crowded channel, but then I saw that there's another strong SSID on the same channel:

https://i.imgur.com/Jycd0qk.jpg

Not knowing what it is, I switched to another channel, and the DIRECT-SYSDESKTOP-CP******* followed in the new channel. Obviously it must have originated from my modem.

Since my internet speed is still crawling, I decided to reset the modem. And after that, I saw this:

https://i.imgur.com/Yy3WBPd.jpg

I guess there's no running away from it. But at least my speed is back up to normal now.

So my question is: why is my modem broadcasting another SSID? And is it anything to be worried about?

[#2]

It could possibly be for different channels, my router does this for 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz.

EDIT: I meant frequencies.

[#3]

I really doubt it. I can't connect to it using any known password. And the mystery SSID doesn't match the default SSID even after reset.

[#4 · Accepted solution]

Could it be your PC  is acting as a WiFi hotspot?

This link shows how to enable/disable.

[#5]

It seems a little strange to me that the SSIDs have different signal strengths if they are originating from the same device. I run multiple SSIDs and they all have the same signal strength.

Do you by any chance have a smart TV or a wi-fi accessible printer that allows you to connect directly without using a network?

[#6]

You don't say what router you have. It's not one that provides a guest network is it?

[#7]

17 minutes ago

Could it be your PC  is acting as a WiFi hotspot?

This link shows how to enable/disable.

You might be on to something here. I checked the PC settings and the SSID is exactly the same as the 'mystery' one! But I've never ever used my PC as a mobile hotspot before. Just to be safe, I disabled the adapter alogether.

And now the 'mystery' SSID is gone! Thank you so much!

[#8]

Could it be your PC  is acting as a WiFi hotspot?

This link shows how to enable/disable.

[#9]

Glad to be of help