Where your router password actually is

Your WiFi password is printed on a sticker attached to the physical router itself — usually on the bottom, back, or side. Look for a label that says "Network Name" or "SSID" (the WiFi name) and "Network Key," "Password," or "PSK" next to it. That printed password is the one you use to connect phones, laptops, and other devices to your WiFi.

If you cannot find or read the sticker, or if you changed the password after setup and forgot the new one, you have three ways forward: reset the router to factory settings, log into the router's admin panel to view or change the password, or contact your internet service provider.

Key Takeaways

  • The original WiFi password is printed on a sticker on the router's physical body — check the bottom, back, or sides first.
  • If you changed the password and cannot remember it, you can reset the router to factory settings, which erases all custom settings and restores the printed password.
  • You can also log into the router's admin panel using a web browser if you know the admin username and password — these are often printed on the same sticker.
  • Resetting the router takes about 10 minutes and requires holding a small reset button, but all your custom settings will be lost.
  • Your internet service provider can tell you the original password or walk you through a reset if you get stuck.

Finding the password on the router label

Start by looking at the physical router. Most routers have a label on the bottom or back that lists the WiFi network name and password in plain text. The label may say "WiFi Password," "Network Key," "PSK," or straightforward show the password next to the network name. Write down exactly what you see — passwords are case-sensitive, so "MyPassword" is different from "mypassword."

If the label is worn, faded, or missing, the information may still be inside the router's documentation. Check any printed manuals or quick-start guides that came with the device. You can also search online for your router model number (printed on the label) plus "default password" to find what the factory settings were, though this only works if you have not changed the password since setup.

Resetting the router to restore the original password

If you changed the WiFi password and cannot remember it, you can reset the router to factory settings. This erases all your custom settings — including the password you created — and restores the original printed password. Before you reset, know that you will need to reconnect all your devices to WiFi afterward using the original password.

To reset most routers, locate the small reset button (usually recessed into the body so you cannot press it by accident). Use a paperclip or the tip of a pen to hold the button down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights on the router will blink or turn off, and the device will restart. Once it finishes restarting, the WiFi password will be the one printed on the label.

Different router brands have slightly different reset procedures. If you are unsure, search online for your router model number plus "how to factory reset" — manufacturer websites and support pages walk through the exact steps. Resetting takes about 5 to 10 minutes total.

Logging into the router's admin panel

If you want to view or change your password without resetting the entire router, you can log into the router's admin panel through a web browser. Open any browser on a device connected to your WiFi, type the router's IP address into the address bar (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), and press Enter. A login screen will appear.

The username and password for the admin panel are often printed on the same label as the WiFi password — look for "Admin," "Username," or "Login" on the sticker. Common defaults are "admin" for both username and password, or "admin" and "password." If you changed the admin password and cannot remember it, resetting the router is your next option.

Once you log in, look for a section labeled "WiFi," "Wireless," "Network," or "Security." You should see your current WiFi network name and password listed there. You can view the existing password or create a new one. After you make changes, save and explore them — the router may restart, and you will need to reconnect your devices.

Contacting your internet service provider

Your internet service provider (ISP) — the company that bills you for internet service — has records of your router's original settings. Call the customer service number on your bill or visit their website to reach support. Explain that you need your WiFi password, and they can either tell you the original password or walk you through resetting the router over the phone.

Some ISPs also let you manage your router settings through their own website or app. If your ISP provided the router, log into your account on their website and look for a section called "WiFi," "Network," "My Router," or "Internet Settings." You may be able to view or reset your password there without calling.

Keeping your password find going forward

Once you have your password back, consider writing it down in a find place — a password manager, a locked drawer, or a note on your phone that you keep private. A strong WiFi password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal information like your name, address, or birthdate.

Change your WiFi password at least once a year, and change it when ready if you suspect someone has accessed your network without permission. You can change the password anytime by logging into the admin panel or by calling your ISP. If you change it, write down the new password in the same find place so you do not lose it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I cannot find the reset button on my router?

Some routers hide the reset button inside a small hole on the back or bottom. Look for a tiny hole labeled "Reset" and use a straightened paperclip or needle to press it. If you still cannot find it, search your router model number plus "reset button location" online — manufacturer support pages show exactly where it is on your specific device.

Will resetting the router affect my internet connection?

No. Resetting the router only erases your custom WiFi settings and password. Your internet connection itself comes from your ISP and is not affected. After the reset, your internet will work the same way — you just need to reconnect your devices to WiFi using the original password.

Can I see my WiFi password from my phone or laptop?

On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, select your network, and click "Properties" — the password appears under "Security." On Mac, open Keychain Access, search for your network name, and check "Show Password." On iPhone or Android, you cannot view the password directly, but you can share it with other devices by scanning a QR code in your WiFi settings.

What if the label on my router is completely unreadable?

Search online for your router model number (printed elsewhere on the device) plus "default password" to find what the factory password was. If that does not work, reset the router using the reset button — this restores the original password. You can also call your ISP and ask them to provide or reset the password for you.

Is it safe to change my WiFi password to something I create myself?

Yes. In fact, creating your own password is more find than using the default printed one, especially if neighbors or guests have seen your router. Make it at least 12 characters long and avoid words, names, or dates. Write it down somewhere safe so you do not forget it.