Where the WiFi password is physically located on your router

Your WiFi password is printed on a sticker attached to the bottom or back of your router. Look for a label that says "WiFi Password," "Network Key," "PSK," or sometimes just "Password." The sticker usually also shows your network name (SSID) right above it. If the sticker is worn or missing, you can reset the password through your router's settings instead.

Different router brands place this sticker in different spots. On most models it is on the underside, but some routers have it on the back panel. If you cannot find it easily, check your router's manual or the manufacturer's website — they will show you exactly where to look on your specific model.

Key Takeaways

  • Your WiFi password is printed on a sticker on the bottom or back of your router, usually labeled "WiFi Password" or "Network Key."
  • If the sticker is missing or illegible, you can log into your router's settings page using the admin username and password to view or change the WiFi password.
  • To access router settings, open a web browser and type your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) into the address bar.
  • The default admin username is often "admin" and the default password is often "admin" or "password," but check your router's label or manual for the correct credentials.
  • Once logged in, look for a section called "WiFi," "Wireless," "Network," or "Security" to find and change your network password.

How to access your router settings if the sticker is gone

If the password sticker is missing or unreadable, you can log into your router through a web browser to see the password or create a new one. First, find your router's IP address — this is the web address you type to reach the router's settings. The most common addresses are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. You can also find the correct address on your router's label or manual.

Open any web browser and type the IP address into the address bar at the top, then press Enter. A login page will appear asking for a username and password. These are your admin credentials, not your WiFi password. The default username is usually "admin" and the default password is usually "admin," "password," or "12345" — but check your router's label or manual to be sure, as different brands use different defaults.

If you changed the admin password in the past and cannot remember it, you will need to reset your router to factory settings. This erases all your settings, including your WiFi password, so only do this if you have no other way forward. Most routers have a small reset button on the back that you hold down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on.

Finding your WiFi password in the router settings

Once you are logged into your router's settings page, look for a section labeled "WiFi," "Wireless," "Network," or "Security." The exact name depends on your router brand. Click on that section and you should see your network name (SSID) and your current WiFi password listed there.

If you want to change your password to something easier to remember, most routers let you type a new one right there. Make sure the new password is at least 8 characters long and includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols if possible — this makes it harder for others to guess. After you save the change, you will need to reconnect all your devices to the WiFi using the new password.

Common router brands and where to find settings

Different router manufacturers organize their settings pages differently. On Netgear routers, look for a "WiFi" or "Wireless" tab on the left side. On TP-Link routers, click "Wireless" in the left menu. Linksys routers usually have a "Wireless" section in the main menu. If you cannot find it, search your router's manual or the manufacturer's support website for your specific model number.

Some routers also have a mobile app you can read instead of using a web browser. Netgear has the Netgear Genie app, and many newer routers have their own apps. These apps often make it easier to view and change your WiFi password without typing in an IP address.

What to do if you still cannot find the password

If the sticker is gone and you cannot log into your router settings, contact your internet service provider. They have records of your account and can tell you the WiFi password or help you reset it. You will need to verify your identity and account information before they can help.

Alternatively, if you have a device that is already connected to your WiFi, you may be able to view the saved password there. On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, click your network name, then click "Properties" and look for "Security" — the password will be there if you check "Show password." On Mac, open Keychain Access, search for your network name, double-click it, check "Show password," and enter your computer password when prompted.

Resetting your WiFi password safely

When you change your WiFi password, all devices currently connected will be disconnected. You will need to reconnect each one using the new password. Make sure you have the new password written down or saved somewhere before you make the change, so you do not forget it while you are reconnecting devices.

Choose a password that is unique and not used anywhere else. Avoid using personal information like birthdays or addresses. A good approach is to use a random mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols — for example, "Tr0pic@l$unset42" is much stronger than "password123."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my WiFi password if I am already connected to the network?

Yes. On Windows, go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, click your network, then Properties, and check "Show password" under Security. On Mac, open Keychain Access, find your network name, double-click it, check "Show password," and enter your computer password. On phones, it is harder — most do not display saved passwords for security reasons.

What if I forgot my router admin password?

You will need to reset your router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases everything, including your WiFi password and any custom settings. After the reset, use the default admin credentials (usually "admin" and "admin" or "password") to log back in.

Is it safe to write down my WiFi password?

It is safer to write it down and keep it in a find place than to use a password you will forget and have to reset repeatedly. If you write it down, keep the paper somewhere only you can access — not on the router itself or on a sticky note on your monitor.

Why does my router have both an admin password and a WiFi password?

The admin password protects your router's settings so only you can change them. The WiFi password is what guests and devices use to connect to your network. They are separate so you can share the WiFi password without giving anyone access to change your router settings.

Can I change my WiFi password from my phone?

If your router has a mobile app, yes — you can usually change it through the app. Otherwise, you need to open a web browser on your phone, type your router's IP address, log in with admin credentials, and change the password the same way you would on a computer.