The fastest way: look at the sticker on your modem

Your WiFi password is almost always printed on a sticker attached to the back or bottom of your modem. The sticker lists your network name (called the SSID) and the password you need to connect devices. This is the quickest place to check first — no login required, no searching through settings.

The sticker format varies by manufacturer. Comcast Xfinity modems typically show "WiFi Name" and "WiFi Password" as separate lines. Spectrum modems label them "Network Name" and "Network Key". Verizon Fios equipment uses "WiFi Network Name" and "WiFi Password". Look for any label that says "password", "key", "passphrase", or "security key".

If the sticker is worn, faded, or missing, you have other options. But start here — most people find what they need in under a minute.

Key Takeaways

  • The WiFi password is printed on a physical sticker on the back or bottom of your modem, usually as the easiest first step.
  • If the sticker is illegible or gone, you can log into your modem's settings page using the default username and password printed elsewhere on the device.
  • The modem's web address is typically 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1, entered into any web browser on a device already connected to your network.
  • Your Internet Service Provider can look up your WiFi password over the phone if you call their customer service line.
  • Resetting your modem to factory settings will erase your current password and restore the default one printed on the device.

Log into your modem's settings page if the sticker is gone

If you cannot read the sticker or it is missing, you can view your WiFi password by logging into your modem's settings. You will need a device that is already connected to your WiFi network — a phone, tablet, or computer.

Open a web browser and type 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1 into the address bar. One of these addresses will load your modem's login page. If neither works, check the back of your modem for a "Gateway Address" or "Admin URL" printed on the sticker.

When the login page appears, enter the default username and password. These are also printed on your modem's sticker — usually "admin" as the username and "motorola", "password", or a string of numbers as the password. Different manufacturers use different defaults, so look for a line that says "Default Username" or "Default Password".

Once logged in, look for a section called "WiFi", "Wireless", "Network", or "Settings". The WiFi password (sometimes called "passphrase" or "security key") will be displayed there in plain text. Write it down or take a screenshot before you leave the page.

Call your Internet Service Provider for the password

If you cannot access the modem's settings page or do not have a device connected to your network, your ISP can tell you the password over the phone. Have your account number ready — it is on your bill or in your account confirmation email.

Most ISPs will ask you to verify your identity by providing your phone number, address, or the last four digits of the Social Security number on the account. They will then read the password to you or send it via text or email. This process usually takes five to ten minutes.

If you are calling Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, Verizon, AT&T, or another major provider, their customer service lines are open during business hours and sometimes 24/7. The phone number is on your bill or on the provider's website.

Reset your modem if you cannot remember the admin password

If you changed the default admin password and cannot remember it, you can reset your modem to factory settings. This will erase your current WiFi password and restore the default one printed on the sticker.

To reset, locate the small reset button on the back of your modem — it is usually recessed 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 modem is powered on. The lights will blink and the modem will restart. This takes about two to three minutes.

Once the modem restarts, your WiFi network will use the default password printed on the sticker. You can then log back in with the default admin credentials and change the password to something new if you wish. Resetting also clears any custom settings you made, so your internet connection may need to be reconfigured by your ISP.

Understand what the password protects

Your WiFi password controls who can connect to your network. Anyone with the password can join your WiFi and use your internet connection. The password does not protect the data traveling between your devices and the internet — that is handled by encryption built into your modem.

If you suspect someone is using your WiFi without permission, you can change the password through your modem's settings page. After you change it, all devices will be disconnected and will need the new password to reconnect. This is a quick way to remove unwanted users.

Find the password on your phone or computer if you are already connected

If you are already connected to your WiFi on a phone or computer, you can view the saved password without logging into the modem.

On Windows: Go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then WiFi. Click "Manage Known Networks", select your network, then "Properties". Scroll down to "Security" and toggle "Show" next to the password field.

On Mac: Open Keychain Access (search for it in Spotlight). Find your WiFi network name in the list, double-click it, check "Show password", and enter your Mac login password when prompted.

On iPhone or iPad: Go to Settings, then WiFi, then tap the information icon next to your network name. The password appears under "Password" — you may need to use Face ID or Touch ID to view it.

On Android: Go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then WiFi. Long-press your network name and select "Share". A QR code appears with your password embedded. You can also take a screenshot to see the password text if your phone displays it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not know my modem's IP address?

Try 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1 first — these are the most common defaults. If neither works, open Command Prompt on Windows and type ipconfig, then look for "Default Gateway". On Mac or Linux, open Terminal and type netstat -nr | grep default. The number shown is your modem's address.

Can I change my WiFi password without calling my ISP?

Yes. Log into your modem's settings page using the method above, find the WiFi or Wireless section, and look for "Password", "Passphrase", or "Security Key". Change it to a new password of your choice, then save. All devices will disconnect and need the new password to reconnect.

Is the default password the same for all modems?

No. Each manufacturer uses different defaults. Motorola modems often use "motorola" as the password. Arris uses "motorola" or a blank password. Netgear uses "password". Check your modem's sticker for the exact default, or search "[your modem model] default password" online.

What should I do if someone else is using my WiFi?

Change your WiFi password through your modem's settings page. This disconnects all devices currently on your network. Only devices with the new password can reconnect. If you want to see which devices are connected before you change it, most modems show a "Connected Devices" list in the settings page.

Will resetting my modem affect my internet connection?

Resetting erases all custom settings, including your WiFi password, network name, and any port forwarding rules you set up. Your internet connection itself may need to be reconfigured by your ISP, though many modems reconnect automatically. Call your ISP before resetting if you are unsure.