The fastest way to find your router password

Your router password is usually printed on a sticker attached to the router itself — check the bottom, back, or sides. Look for a label that says "WiFi Password," "Network Key," "PSK," or sometimes just "Password." The sticker often also shows your network name (SSID) right next to it. If the sticker is still there and readable, this is your answer.

If the sticker is missing, faded, or you cannot find it, you can reset the router to its factory default password. Every router model has a default password — for many brands it is something like "admin" or "password" — but you will need to know your specific model's default. The model number is also on that same sticker, or printed on the router's case.

Key Takeaways

  • The WiFi password is almost always printed on a physical sticker attached to your router.
  • If you cannot read the sticker, you can reset the router to its factory default password using the reset button on the device itself.
  • Resetting the router erases any custom password you set, so you will need to set a new one afterward.
  • If you set a custom password and forgot it, resetting is the only way to regain access without calling your internet provider.

Finding the password on the router sticker

Locate the physical router — it is usually a box with antennas, lights, and ports on the back. Flip it over or look at the back panel. The information sticker is typically white or silver and contains several lines of text and numbers.

On that sticker, find the line labeled "WiFi Password," "Network Key," "Passphrase," or "PSK" (which stands for Pre-Shared Key). The password is the string of characters next to that label. Copy it exactly as written — passwords are case-sensitive, so "MyPassword" is different from "mypassword." If there are special characters or numbers, include those too.

Write this password down or take a photo of the sticker with your phone. Keep it somewhere safe so you do not lose it again.

Resetting the router to use the default password

If the sticker is gone or unreadable, you can reset the router to its factory settings. This erases any custom password you created and restores the default password that came with the device. Look for a small button labeled "Reset" on the back or bottom of the router — it is usually recessed so you cannot press it by accident.

Use a straightened paperclip or a pen tip to press and hold the Reset button for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights on the front will flash or go dark, and the router will restart. This process takes about two to three minutes. Once the lights stabilize, the router is reset.

After the reset, you will need to know the default password for your router model. Check the sticker again — if it is still readable, the default password is printed there. If not, you can search online for "[your router brand and model number] default password" to find it. Common defaults include "admin," "password," "12345," or "admin123," but this varies by manufacturer.

Finding your router model and default password

The router model number is printed on the same sticker as the WiFi password, usually near the top. It might say "Model," "Model No.," or "Type." Write down the exact model number — for example, "TP-Link Archer A6" or "Netgear Nighthawk AX12."

Once you have the model number, search for it online along with "default password" or "default WiFi password." Manufacturer websites like TP-Link, Netgear, Linksys, and Asus all publish default credentials for their routers. You can also find this information on tech support forums or the router's manual if you still have it.

Some routers use the same default password for all models from that brand, while others vary. The search will show you the exact default for your device. Write it down before you reset, so you have it ready when the router restarts.

Setting a new password after a reset

Once the router has restarted after a reset, open a web browser on any device connected to the WiFi. Type the router's IP address into the address bar — this is usually printed on the sticker as well, often something like "192.168.1.1" or "192.168.0.1." Press Enter.

A login page will appear. Enter the default username (usually "admin") and the default password you found. Once you are logged in, look for a section called "WiFi Settings," "Wireless," or "Network." Find the field for "WiFi Password" or "Network Key" and enter a new password of your choice.

Make sure your new password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols — this makes it harder for others to guess. Save the changes, and the router will restart with your new password. Write down this new password and keep it safe.

What to do if you cannot reset the router

If the Reset button is broken, stuck, or you are renting and cannot reset the landlord's router, contact your internet provider. They have records of the account and can tell you the WiFi password or reset it remotely. Have your account number or phone number ready when you call.

If the router belongs to your landlord or employer, ask them directly for the password. They may have it written down or can reset it themselves. Do not attempt to reset a router you do not own without permission.

Protecting your new password

Once you have set a new WiFi password, do not share it with people you do not trust. Each person who knows it can connect to your network and see your internet traffic. If someone you no longer want on your network knows the password, change it again — this will disconnect them automatically.

Store your password in a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or the password manager built into your phone or computer. This way you do not have to remember it or write it down on paper where it can be lost or seen by others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the WiFi password and the admin password?

The WiFi password is what you use to connect devices to your network. The admin password is what you use to log into the router's settings page to change configurations. They are separate — you can change one without changing the other. The WiFi password is on the sticker; the admin password is usually "admin" by default.

Will resetting the router affect my internet connection?

No. Resetting the router returns it to factory settings but does not change your internet service or account. Your internet provider's connection will still work. You may need to set up your WiFi network name and password again, but your internet speed and service remain the same.

Can I change my WiFi password without resetting the router?

Yes. If you remember your current WiFi password, log into the router's settings page using a web browser, find the WiFi settings, and change the password there. You do not need to reset the router. This is faster and does not erase any other settings you have customized.

What if I lost the password and cannot find the sticker?

Reset the router using the Reset button, then use the default password printed on the sticker (if still readable) or search online for your router model's default password. After you log in, set a new password and write it down when ready.

Is it safe to use the default password long-term?

No. Default passwords are public knowledge and anyone with your router model can find them online. Always change the default password to something unique as soon as you can. Use a strong password with at least 12 characters, including letters, numbers, and symbols.