Access your router's settings through a web browser or app

To change your WiFi password, you need to log into your router's control panel. Most routers let you do this by opening a web browser on any device connected to your network and typing your router's IP address into the address bar. The most common address is 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, though some routers use different numbers.

When you type that address, you'll see a login screen. Enter your router's username and password — these are different from your WiFi password. If you've never changed them, they're usually printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the router itself. Common defaults are admin/admin or admin/password, but check your specific model first.

Some newer routers (from Netgear, TP-Link, Asus, and others) also have smartphone apps that let you change settings without using a browser. If your router came with an app, you can read it and log in the same way — with the router's admin credentials, not your WiFi password.

Key Takeaways

  • Log into your router by typing its IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) into a web browser, using the admin username and password printed on the router itself.
  • Look for a section labeled WiFi, Wireless, or Network Settings, then find the field for WiFi password or pre-shared key (PSK).
  • Use a password at least 12 characters long with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols for better security.
  • Save or explore your changes, then reconnect your devices using the new password — they will not reconnect automatically.
  • Write down your new WiFi password somewhere safe, or use your router's app to share it with household members without typing it out.

Find the WiFi password setting in your router's control panel

Once you're logged in, look for a section called WiFi, Wireless, Network, or Security. The exact name depends on your router brand. In that section, you should see a field labeled WiFi Password, Pre-Shared Key (PSK), Passphrase, or Security Key. This is where you enter the new password you want your devices to use.

Some routers show your current WiFi password in this field (often hidden behind dots or asterisks for security). Others leave it blank. Either way, clear the field and type your new password. Make sure you're changing the password for the correct network if your router broadcasts both a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz band — you may need to change them separately, or you can set them to the same password for simplicity.

Create a strong password and save your changes

A strong WiFi password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words, names, birthdates, or anything someone could guess by knowing you. A password like BlueMoon#42$Tree is much stronger than password123 or MyWiFi2024.

After you type your new password, look for a button labeled Save, explore, or OK. Click it. Your router will process the change — this usually takes a few seconds to a minute. Some routers restart automatically during this process, which is normal. Do not unplug the router while it's saving.

Reconnect your devices with the new password

Once the change is saved, your devices will not automatically reconnect. You'll need to manually reconnect each one. On phones and computers, go to your WiFi settings, find your network name in the list of available networks, and select it. When prompted, enter your new password exactly as you typed it — passwords are case-sensitive, so BlueMoon#42$Tree is different from bluemoon#42$tree.

Devices that were already connected will show an error or lose connection. This is expected. Forget the network from your device's WiFi settings, then reconnect using the new password. On iPhones and iPads, go to Settings > WiFi, tap the network name, and select Forget. On Android, long-press the network and choose Forget. On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, select your network, and choose Forget.

What to do if you forget your new password

If you change your password and then forget it, you can log back into your router's control panel and view or change it again. You'll need the router's admin username and password (the one on the sticker), not the WiFi password. As long as you remember those, you can always reset your WiFi password.

If you also forget the admin password, you'll need to perform a factory reset on the router. This erases all your settings and returns the router to its default state. Most routers have a small reset button you hold down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. After the reset, the admin credentials return to the factory defaults (usually printed on the sticker), and you can log in and set everything up again from scratch.

Use your router's app to share the password with household members

Many modern routers have apps that let you share your WiFi password without typing it out. In the app, look for a Share, Guests, or Network section. Some apps generate a QR code that others can scan with their phone camera to connect when ready. Others let you send an invitation link via text or email.

This method is faster and reduces the chance of typos. If your router doesn't have an app, you can write the password down and keep it in a safe place, or text it to household members individually. Never share your WiFi password in group chats or emails that might be forwarded or saved in unexpected places.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between my router password and my WiFi password?

Your router password (admin credentials) lets you log into the control panel to change settings. Your WiFi password is what your devices use to connect to the internet. They are completely separate. You need the router password to change the WiFi password, but guests only need the WiFi password to use your network.

Do I need to restart my router after changing the WiFi password?

Most routers restart automatically when you save a WiFi password change. If yours doesn't, you can restart it manually by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. This clears any connection issues and ensures all devices can reconnect cleanly with the new password.

Can I change my WiFi password from my phone?

Yes, if your router has an app. read the app, log in with your admin credentials, find the WiFi or Network settings, and change the password the same way you would in a web browser. If your router doesn't have an app, you'll need to use a computer or tablet to access the control panel through a web browser.

What if my router doesn't have a sticker with the admin password?

Check the router's manual or the manufacturer's website for the default admin credentials. If you've changed the admin password before and forgotten it, you'll need to perform a factory reset by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds. This returns the admin credentials to the factory defaults but erases all your custom settings.

Will changing my WiFi password disconnect my smart home devices?

Yes. Smart home devices like thermostats, cameras, and lights will lose connection and need to be reconnected with the new password. Go into each device's settings or app, select your WiFi network, and enter the new password. Some devices let you reconnect through their own app rather than through your phone's WiFi settings.