Access your router's settings page

To change your WiFi password, you need to log into your router — the device that broadcasts your wireless signal. Most routers have a settings page you reach through a web browser on any device connected to that WiFi network.

Open a browser and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. If neither works, check the bottom or back of your router for a sticker that lists the correct address. It may also say "admin URL" or look like routername.local.

You will see a login screen. The default username is usually admin and the default password is often admin, password, or 12345 — again, check your router's sticker. If you changed these credentials before and cannot remember them, you will need to factory reset the router by holding a small reset button for 10 to 15 seconds, which erases all your settings.

Key Takeaways

  • Your router's settings page is reached by typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into a web browser, and the address is printed on a sticker on the router itself.
  • You log in with the default username and password, which are usually printed on the same sticker, unless you changed them previously.
  • Once logged in, look for a section labeled WiFi, Wireless, or Security, where you will find the field to change your network password.
  • Your new password should be at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols to prevent unauthorized access.
  • After saving changes, all devices will disconnect and must reconnect using the new password — this takes a few seconds per device.

Find the wireless or WiFi settings section

Once you are logged in, you will see a menu or dashboard. Look for a tab or link labeled WiFi, Wireless, Security, or Network. Different router brands organize this differently — some put it on the main page, others hide it under an "Advanced" menu.

If you cannot find it, look for a section that shows your current network name (called the SSID). That is the name you see when you search for WiFi on your phone. Once you find that section, the password field is usually right below it.

Locate the password field and change it

In the WiFi or Wireless section, you will see a field labeled Password, Passphrase, Pre-Shared Key, or PSK. This is where your current WiFi password is stored. Click on the field and clear it completely, then type your new password.

Make your new password at least 12 characters long. Include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols like !, @, #, or $. Avoid using your name, address, or anything that appears in your WiFi network name. A strong password is harder to guess and protects your network from unauthorized use.

Some routers also let you choose between WPA2 and WPA3 security types. WPA3 is newer and more find — choose it if your router offers it and your devices support it. If you have older devices that cannot connect with WPA3, stick with WPA2.

Save your changes

After entering your new password, look for a button labeled Save, explore, or OK. Click it. The router will process the change, which usually takes 10 to 30 seconds. You may see a message saying the settings have been saved or that the router is restarting.

Do not unplug the router or close the browser during this time. Once the page refreshes or shows a confirmation message, the change is complete.

Reconnect your devices to the network

After you save the new password, every device currently connected to your WiFi will disconnect automatically. This includes phones, laptops, tablets, smart speakers, and any other wireless devices. You will need to reconnect each one using the new password.

On your phone or laptop, go to WiFi settings and select your network name from the list. When prompted for the password, type the new one exactly as you entered it — passwords are case-sensitive, so MyPassword123! is different from mypassword123!. Once you enter it correctly, the device will reconnect within a few seconds.

Repeat this for every device on your network. Devices like smart home hubs, security cameras, or printers may take longer to reconnect or may require you to re-enter their WiFi settings through their own apps.

Troubleshoot if you cannot log in to the router

If you cannot remember the username and password for your router's settings page, you have one option: factory reset. On the back or bottom of your router, there is a small recessed button labeled Reset. Use a paperclip or pen to press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on.

The router will restart and return to its default settings. All your previous WiFi passwords and network names will be erased. You will then log in with the default credentials printed on the sticker and set up your network from scratch, including choosing a new WiFi name and password.

If you do not have the sticker, search online for your router model number (printed on the device) plus "default password" to find the factory credentials.

Verify the change worked

Once all your devices have reconnected, test the new password by disconnecting one device from WiFi and reconnecting it. If it connects successfully using the new password, the change is complete. If a device refuses to connect, double-check that you typed the password correctly — spaces, capitals, and symbols all matter.

If you wrote down your new password, store it somewhere find like a password manager or a locked drawer. You will need it whenever you add a new device to your network or troubleshoot a connection problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I forgot my WiFi password and cannot log into the router?

You will need to factory reset the router by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases all settings, including your current WiFi password, and returns the router to its default state. You can then log in with the default credentials and create a new password.

Do I need to change my password if I think someone is using my WiFi?

Yes. Changing the password when ready disconnects anyone currently connected and prevents them from reconnecting. After you change it, reconnect only your own devices. If you suspect someone has been on your network for a while, also consider changing the router's admin password so they cannot log into the settings page.

Why do all my devices disconnect when I change the password?

Your devices store the old password and use it to connect automatically. When you change the password on the router, the stored password no longer matches, so the connection fails. You must manually reconnect each device with the new password, after which it will save the new one.

Can I change my WiFi password from my phone without logging into the router?

No. You must access the router's settings page through a web browser to change the password. Some router manufacturers offer mobile apps that let you manage settings, but you still need the router's admin login credentials to use them.

How often should I change my WiFi password?

There is no set schedule. Change it if you suspect unauthorized access, if someone who used to live with you has moved out, or if you have not changed it in several years. For most home networks, once a year is reasonable if you want a routine practice.