Your WiFi code is usually on a sticker on your router, or in your account with your internet provider
The easiest place to look first is the physical router itself — the box that brings internet into your home. Most routers have a sticker on the bottom or back that lists the network name (called the SSID) and the password. The sticker might say "WiFi Password", "Network Key", "Pre-Shared Key", or just "Password". Write down exactly what it says, including capital letters and numbers, because WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.
If the sticker is missing or worn away, your internet provider keeps a record of your network password. You can log into your account online, call their customer service line, or visit a local office. Have your account number ready — you'll find it on your bill or in your account settings. The provider can tell you the password over the phone or send it to you by email or text.
If you've changed the password since you set up the router and can't remember the new one, you have two options: reset the router to factory settings (which erases your custom password and returns it to the original one on the sticker), or change the password again from a device that's already connected to the network.
Key Takeaways
- Check the sticker on the bottom or back of your router first — it usually has the original network name and password printed on it.
- Your internet provider stores your WiFi password in their system and can tell you what it is if you call or log into your account online.
- If you changed the password and forgot it, you can reset the router to factory settings to restore the original password from the sticker.
- You can also change your password again if you're already connected to the network from a phone, computer, or tablet.
How to find the password on your router's sticker
Turn off the router first, then flip it over or look at the back. Most routers have a label with network information printed directly on the device. Look for these labels: "SSID" (the network name you see when you search for WiFi), "WiFi Password", "Network Key", "PSK" (pre-shared key), or sometimes just "Password".
Write down the exact text, paying attention to uppercase and lowercase letters. For example, "MyNetwork2024!" is different from "mynetwork2024!" — if you type it wrong, you won't be able to connect. Some routers also print a QR code on the sticker that phones can scan to connect automatically, which skips the typing step entirely.
If the sticker is faded or missing, the original password is still stored inside the router's settings. You'll need to access the router's admin panel from a device that's already connected to the network (see the section below on changing your password).
How to get your password from your internet provider
Call your provider's customer service number — it's on your bill or on their website. Tell them you need your WiFi password. They'll ask for your account number and may ask you to verify your identity by providing your phone number, address, or the last four digits of the card on file.
Most providers can tell you the password when ready over the phone. Some will also send it to you by text or email if you ask. If you're uncomfortable giving the password over the phone, you can log into your account on the provider's website — many providers display your network password in the account settings under "Internet" or "WiFi".
If you can't find it in your account or the provider can't locate it, ask them to reset your WiFi password. They can do this remotely, and they'll give you a new temporary password that you can change later.
How to change your password if you're already connected
If you're already logged into the network on your phone, computer, or tablet, you can change the password without resetting the router. Open a web browser and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. This takes you to your router's admin panel.
You'll be asked to log in. The default username is usually "admin" and the default password is often "admin", "password", or blank. If those don't work, check the router's sticker or manual for the default login. Once you're in, look for a section called "WiFi", "Wireless", "Network", or "Security". Find the field that says "Password" or "Pre-Shared Key" and type in a new password.
Make the new password at least 12 characters long and mix uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (like ! or #). Write it down somewhere safe before you save the changes. Your router will restart, and you'll need to reconnect all your devices using the new password.
How to reset your router to restore the original password
If you can't access the admin panel and don't remember your password, you can reset the router to factory settings. This erases all your custom settings and returns the network password to the original one printed on the sticker.
Locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of the router — it's usually recessed so you can't press it by accident. Use a paperclip or the tip of a pen to hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights on the router will blink, and it will restart. This takes a few minutes.
Once the router has restarted, the network name and password will be back to the original ones on the sticker. You can then log in and change the password to something new if you want. Keep in mind that resetting also erases any other changes you made, like port forwarding or parental controls.
What to do if you can't find the sticker or contact your provider
If the sticker is completely gone and you can't reach your provider, the reset button is your last option. Resetting returns everything to factory defaults, including the network password. After the reset, you'll see the original network name and can use the default password that came with the router model.
You can find the default password by searching online for your router's model number (printed on the sticker or the device itself) plus "default password". Sites like DefaultPassword.com or the router manufacturer's support page list the factory defaults for most models.
Once you're back in the admin panel, change the password to something strong and write it down. Consider taking a photo of the sticker or saving the password in a password manager so you don't lose it again.
How to keep track of your WiFi password so you don't lose it again
The simplest method is to write it down and keep it in a safe place — a drawer, a notebook, or a locked box. If you prefer digital storage, use a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or KeePass. These programs encrypt your passwords and let you access them from any device.
Another option is to take a clear photo of the router's sticker (front and back) and store it in your phone's photo library or in a cloud folder that only you can access. This way, you have the information with you if you need to reconnect a device or help a guest join the network.
If you change your password, update your record when ready. Many people write down a new password and then forget to save it, which leads to the same problem later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see my WiFi password on my phone or computer?
On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, select your network, and click Properties. Scroll down to find "Security" and toggle "Show" next to the password field. On Mac, open Keychain Access, search for your network name, double-click it, check "Show password", and enter your computer password. On iPhone and Android, you can't view saved passwords directly, but you can reset the network and reconnect to see the password prompt again.
What if I reset the router but still don't know the default password?
Search online for your router's model number (found on the device or the original box) plus "default password". Most manufacturers list these on their support websites. If you still can't find it, contact your internet provider — they can help you access the router or reset it remotely with a new password they provide.
Is it safe to write down my WiFi password?
Writing it down and keeping it in a safe place at home is fine — it's much safer than using a weak password you can remember. If you're worried about physical security, use a password manager instead. Never write it on a sticky note on the router itself or share it in unencrypted emails or texts.
Can I change my WiFi password without losing internet?
Yes. When you change the password in the router's admin panel, the router restarts but your internet comes back on within a few minutes. You'll need to reconnect each device using the new password, but the internet itself doesn't go down permanently. Just make sure you write down the new password before you save the changes.
What should my new WiFi password look like?
Use at least 12 characters mixing uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words, birthdates, or patterns. For example, "BlueSky#2024Rain" is stronger than "password123". The longer and more random it is, the harder it is for someone to guess or crack.