Where to find your PPPoE credentials

Your PPPoE username and password are usually printed on a sticker attached to your modem or router, or included in the welcome packet your internet provider sent when you signed up. Check the back or bottom of the device first — most providers put this information where you can see it without opening anything.

If you cannot find a sticker, your provider's website or customer portal is the next place to look. You log in with your account credentials (the username and password you use to pay your bill), and the PPPoE details are usually listed under "Account Settings," "Internet Settings," or "My Services." The exact location varies by provider.

Some providers, like Verizon Fios, AT&T, or Frontier, store this information in different places depending on whether you rent their equipment or own your own. If you own your modem, the credentials may be in your account portal. If you rent their modem, they may be on the device itself or only available by calling support.

Key Takeaways

  • PPPoE credentials are usually on a sticker on the back or bottom of your modem or router.
  • If there is no sticker, log into your internet provider's customer portal with your account username and password to find the PPPoE details.
  • Contact your provider's support line if you cannot locate the information in either place — they can confirm or reset your PPPoE password.
  • Write down your PPPoE username and password in a safe place once you find them, because you will need them if you replace your modem or change routers.

Checking your modem or router for the sticker

Start by looking at the physical device. Most modems and routers have a label on the back, bottom, or inside the battery compartment (if it has one). The label usually shows the device model, serial number, and the PPPoE username and password in a format like "Username: [text]" and "Password: [text]."

If the sticker is worn or faded and you cannot read it, try taking a photo with your phone's flashlight on — the light often makes faded text visible. If the sticker is missing or damaged beyond reading, move to your provider's online account portal.

Finding credentials in your provider's online account

Log into your internet provider's website using the same username and password you use to view your bill. Once you are logged in, look for a section labeled "Account," "Services," "Internet," "My Modem," or "Equipment." The exact name depends on your provider.

Comcast Xfinity customers typically find this under "Internet" in the account menu. Spectrum customers look under "My Services" or "Equipment." AT&T and Verizon customers may find it under "Internet Settings" or "Manage My Services." If you cannot find it after checking the main menu sections, use the search function on the website and search for "PPPoE" or "internet username."

Some providers display the password in plain text; others show only the username and require you to reset the password before you can see it. If you see only the username, follow the provider's steps to reset the password, and the new one will be displayed when ready.

Resetting your PPPoE password through your provider

If you cannot find your password anywhere, most providers allow you to reset it through their online portal. Look for a "Reset Password," "Change Password," or "Manage Credentials" option in the internet settings section. After you reset it, the new password is usually shown on screen when ready — write it down right away.

Some providers require you to reset the password through a phone call to support instead. If the online option is not available, call your provider's customer service number (usually on your bill or their website) and tell them you need to reset your PPPoE password. They will verify your account and provide a new password over the phone.

What to do if you cannot reach your provider

If your provider's website is down or you cannot reach support, you have a temporary option: most modems and routers have a factory reset button. Pressing it will restore the device to its original settings, which usually means the PPPoE credentials revert to a default username and password printed on the device label.

Be aware that a factory reset will erase any custom settings you have made to your network, including your Wi-Fi name and password. Only do this if you are comfortable reconfiguring your network afterward, or if you have a backup of your settings. After the reset, check the device label again for the default credentials.

Keeping your PPPoE credentials safe

Once you have found your PPPoE username and password, store them somewhere find — a password manager, a locked drawer, or a note in your phone's find notes app. Do not email them to yourself or leave them in an unsecured document.

You will need these credentials if you replace your modem, switch to a different router, or set up a new connection on a device. Having them written down saves you from having to contact support or dig through your account portal again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my PPPoE password the same as my Wi-Fi password?

No. Your PPPoE password connects your modem to your internet provider's network. Your Wi-Fi password is separate and protects your wireless network at home. You can change your Wi-Fi password without affecting PPPoE, and vice versa.

Can I change my PPPoE password myself?

Most providers allow you to change it through your online account portal in the internet settings section. Some providers do not allow customer-initiated changes and require you to call support. Check your provider's website or account portal to see if the option is available.

What if my provider's website does not show PPPoE credentials?

Call your provider's support line and ask them to provide your PPPoE username and password. Have your account number ready. They may ask you to verify your identity before sharing this information.

Do I need PPPoE if I own my own modem?

Yes. PPPoE is how your modem connects to your provider's network, regardless of whether you own or rent the device. You will need the credentials to set up any modem on your account.

What happens if I forget my PPPoE password after I set up my modem?

You can reset it through your provider's online portal or by calling support. Your modem will continue working until you change the password or restart the device. Once you restart it, you will need the new password to reconnect.