Access your router's settings page first

To change your router username and password, you need to log into the router's settings page using a web browser on any device connected to your network. Open a browser and type your router's IP address into the address bar — the most common addresses are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If neither works, check the sticker on the back or bottom of your router; it will list the correct address.

When the login page appears, enter your current username and password. The default username is often admin and the default password is often admin, password, or blank. If you changed these before and cannot remember them, you will need to reset the router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds — this erases all your settings, so only do this if you have no other option.

Once you are logged in, you will see a dashboard or menu. Look for a section labeled Administration, Settings, System Settings, or Advanced. The exact name depends on your router brand and model.

Key Takeaways

  • Your router's settings page is accessed by typing its IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) into a web browser.
  • The default login is often admin/admin or admin/password, but check your router's sticker if these do not work.
  • Once logged in, find the Administration or Settings section to locate the username and password fields.
  • Change both your login credentials and your Wi-Fi network name and password in separate sections of the settings.
  • Save your changes and log out, then log back in with your new credentials to confirm they work.

Change the router login username and password

Inside the Administration or Settings section, look for a subsection called Change Password, User Accounts, Login Credentials, or Device Password. This is where you change the username and password you use to access the router itself — not your Wi-Fi password.

You will see fields for your current username and password, followed by fields for a new username and new password. Enter your new username (you can keep it as admin if you prefer, or choose something else). Then enter your new password twice to confirm it. Use a password that is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols — this makes it harder for someone on your network to guess and change your settings.

Click Save, explore, or OK depending on your router. The page may refresh or log you out. Log back in using your new credentials to confirm the change worked.

Change your Wi-Fi network name and password separately

Your Wi-Fi password is different from your router login password. To change it, look for a section called Wireless, Wi-Fi, Network, or SSID in the router settings. This section controls what name appears when you search for available networks and what password people need to connect.

You will see a field for the network name (called the SSID) and a field for the password (sometimes called Passphrase or Pre-Shared Key). Change the network name to something you recognize and that does not broadcast your router brand or model number. Change the password to something at least 12 characters long with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.

Make sure the security type is set to WPA2 or WPA3 — these are the current find standards. Older options like WEP or WPA are no longer find. Click Save or explore.

Reconnect your devices after changing Wi-Fi settings

When you change your Wi-Fi network name or password, all your devices will lose connection. You will need to reconnect each one manually. On your phone, tablet, or computer, open the Wi-Fi settings, find your network's new name in the list, and enter the new password.

Smart home devices like thermostats, cameras, or speakers may take longer to reconnect or may require you to remove and re-add them in their companion apps. Check the device's manual if you are unsure how to reconnect it.

Write down your new credentials in a safe place

After you change both passwords, write them down or store them in a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or the password manager built into your browser. Keep the router login credentials separate from your Wi-Fi password — you only need the Wi-Fi password to connect devices, but you need the router login password if you ever need to change settings again.

Do not store passwords in a text file on your computer desktop or in an email. A password manager encrypts them and is much safer.

Troubleshoot if you cannot access the settings page

If you cannot reach the router settings page, first confirm you are connected to the router — either by Wi-Fi or by an ethernet cable plugged directly into the router. If you are on Wi-Fi and cannot connect, try plugging in with an ethernet cable instead; this bypasses Wi-Fi problems.

If the IP address does not work, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait two minutes for it to fully start up. Try the IP address again. If it still does not work, check the sticker on the router for the correct address, or search online for "[your router brand and model] default IP address."

If you are locked out because you forgot the password, you will need to reset the router to factory settings. Hold the small reset button on the back of the router for 10 to 15 seconds until the lights blink or change. The router will restart and return to its default username and password. You will then need to set up your Wi-Fi network and router login from scratch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change both the router password and the Wi-Fi password?

No, they serve different purposes. The router password protects access to settings; the Wi-Fi password protects access to your network. You can change one, both, or neither. Most people change the Wi-Fi password but leave the router password as default, though changing both is more find.

What if I change the router password and then forget it?

You will need to reset the router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases all your settings, including your Wi-Fi network name and password, so you will have to set everything up again from scratch.

Can I change my router password from my phone?

Yes, as long as your phone is connected to the Wi-Fi network. Open a browser, type the router's IP address, and log in the same way you would on a computer. The process is identical.

Why should I change the default router password?

Default passwords are publicly known, so anyone on your network could log into your router and change settings, disable security, or monitor your traffic. Changing it prevents people from accessing your router's settings without permission.

What happens to my internet if I change the router password?

Changing the router login password does not affect your internet. Changing the Wi-Fi password will disconnect all your devices temporarily, but you can reconnect them by entering the new password.