How to Change Your WiFi Name and Password

Where to make the changes

Your WiFi name and password live in your router's settings, not on your internet bill or in an app on your phone. You reach them by typing your router's IP address into a web browser on any device connected to that WiFi. The most common address is 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — try the first one first.

When you type that address into the address bar (the same place you'd type google.com), your router will ask for a username and password. This is different from your WiFi password. The default is usually admin for both username and password, though some routers use admin and password. If those don't work, check the sticker on the back or bottom of your router — it often lists the defaults.

Once you're logged in, look for a section called WiFi Settings, Wireless, or Network. The exact wording depends on your router brand. From there you can change both the name (called the SSID) and the password.

Key Takeaways

• Access your router settings by typing 192.168.1.1 into a web browser, then log in with the default username and password (usually both admin).
• The WiFi name and password are separate from your router login — changing one does not change the other.
• After you save changes, your WiFi will restart and you'll need to reconnect all your devices using the new name and password.
• Write down your new password somewhere safe, because you'll need it every time a new device joins your network.
• If you forget the new password later, you can reset the router to factory defaults by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds, then start over.

Changing the WiFi name (SSID)

Once you're in the WiFi Settings section, find the field labeled SSID, Network Name, or WiFi Name. This is what shows up in the list when someone looks for available networks on their phone or laptop. Type in whatever name you want — it can be anything, and it doesn't have to match your internet provider's name.

Choose a name that makes sense to you and is straightforward to recognize. Many people use their last name, their address, or something like "Home WiFi". Avoid putting personal information like your full address or phone number in the name, since anyone nearby can see it.

After you type the new name, look for a Save or explore button. The router will restart, which takes 30 seconds to a few minutes. During that time, your WiFi will disappear from the available networks list, then reappear with the new name.

Changing the WiFi password

In the same WiFi Settings section, find the field for Password, WiFi Password, or Pre-Shared Key (PSK). Delete the old password and type in a new one. Make it at least 12 characters long and mix uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols — something like BlueSky#2024Home is stronger than password123.

The password field usually shows dots or asterisks instead of the actual characters as you type, so you can't see if you made a typo. Some routers have a checkbox to show the password as you type it — use that if it's available, so you can double-check before saving.

After you save, the router restarts again. Your old password stops working when ready, so any device still trying to use it will lose connection. You'll need to forget the old network on each device and reconnect using the new password.

Reconnecting your devices after the change

Once the router finishes restarting, your phone, laptop, tablet, and any other WiFi device will see the network with its new name. When you try to connect, it will ask for the password. Type in the new one you just created.

For devices that were already connected, you may need to manually disconnect first. On most phones, go to Settings, then WiFi, find the old network name, and tap "Forget" or "Remove". Then search for the new network name and connect with the new password.

Smart home devices like security cameras, smart speakers, or thermostats may need to be reconnected through their own apps. Check the device's manual or app to see how to add it to a new network — the process varies widely.

If you can't log into the router settings

If the default username and password don't work, check the sticker on your router again. Some manufacturers use different defaults. If you've changed the router login password before and don't remember it, you'll need to reset the router to factory settings.

To reset, locate the small reset button (usually recessed, so you need a paperclip or pen to press it). Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights will blink and the router will restart. Once it's back up, the login will be the factory default again, and you can log in and change the WiFi settings.

Resetting the router also erases any other changes you made to its settings, so only do this if you're sure you can't remember the login. If you've customized port forwarding, DNS settings, or other advanced options, you'll lose those too.

Security tips for your new password

A strong WiFi password keeps neighbors and passersby from using your internet without permission. It also prevents them from seeing the devices on your network or intercepting data sent between your devices and the router.

Avoid using dictionary words, names, or dates that someone could guess. BlueSky#2024Home is better than JohnSmith2024 or Password123. Use a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password to store it if you're worried about forgetting it — that's safer than writing it on a sticky note on your router.

Change your password every year or two, or sooner if someone who used to visit no longer does. You don't need to change it constantly — once a year is enough for most homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my WiFi password disconnect me from the internet?

No. Your internet connection comes from the modem, which is separate from the router. Changing the WiFi password only affects devices that connect wirelessly. Devices plugged directly into the router with an ethernet cable won't be affected at all.

What if I forget the new password I just set?

Log back into the router settings (using 192.168.1.1 and the router login) and look at the WiFi password field. It will show your current password, usually as dots. You can read it there or change it to something you'll remember better. If you also forgot the router login, reset the router to factory defaults and start over.

Can I change the WiFi name without changing the password?

Yes. In the WiFi Settings, change only the SSID field and leave the password field alone. Save the changes, and the router will restart with the new name but the same password. Devices will need to reconnect using the new network name, but the password stays the same.

Do I need to change the router login password too?

It's a good idea, especially if you still have the factory default. Anyone who knows the default can log into your router and change your WiFi settings or access other options. Look for an Administration or System Settings section in the router menu to change the router login password separately from the WiFi password.

Why does my router keep asking me to log in again?

Some routers log you out after a few minutes of inactivity for security reasons. If you're making multiple changes, you may need to log back in between steps. This is normal and not a sign something is wrong.