Where your modem credentials are stored

Your modem's username and password are printed on a sticker on the device itself — usually on the back or bottom. Look for a label that says "Admin," "Username," "Password," or sometimes just "Login." The default credentials are almost always there in plain text.

If the sticker is worn or missing, the same information is in your modem's manual, which your internet service provider (ISP) either mailed with the device or posted online. You can also find it by searching "[your modem model number] default password" — for example, "Netgear CM500 default password" or "Arris SB6121 default password."

Most modems ship with a standard default username like "admin" and a password like "motorola," "netgear," or "admin" — the exact pair depends on the manufacturer. Your ISP may have changed these when they set up your account, but the original defaults are your starting point if you cannot find documentation.

Key Takeaways

  • The modem's default username and password are printed on a physical sticker attached to the device, usually on the back or bottom.
  • If you cannot read the sticker, check the manual that came with your modem or search online for your specific modem model number plus "default password."
  • Common default usernames are "admin" or "root," and common passwords are "motorola," "netgear," "admin," or "password" — the exact pair varies by manufacturer.
  • If you changed the password yourself and forgot it, you will need to factory reset the modem, which erases all custom settings and restores the defaults.

Checking the modem manual and manufacturer website

If the sticker is illegible or missing, your modem's manual is the next reliable source. Check any paperwork that came in the box with your modem, or ask your ISP to send you a copy — they usually have digital versions on file.

You can also visit the manufacturer's support website directly. Netgear, Arris, Motorola, TP-Link, and other major modem makers publish default credentials for each model. Go to their support page, search for your modem model number (printed on the device or in your ISP paperwork), and look for "default login" or "initial setup" documentation.

What to do if you changed the password and forgot it

If you logged in before and changed the password yourself, you will need to reset the modem to factory defaults. This erases any custom settings you made — port forwarding, DNS changes, or other configurations — and restores the original username and password.

To reset, locate the small reset button on the back of the modem (often recessed, requiring a paperclip or pin to press). Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the modem is powered on. The lights will blink and the modem will restart. Once it boots back up, use the default credentials from the sticker or manual to log in again.

After you reset, you can change the password to something new if you want. Write it down or store it in a password manager so you do not lose it again.

Finding your modem model number

Your modem model number is printed on the sticker on the device itself, usually near the serial number. It typically looks like "CM500," "SB6121," "MG7550," or "TC8305" — a short code with letters and numbers.

You can also find it in your ISP's account portal or in the paperwork they sent when they installed the modem. Once you have the model number, search "[model number] default username password" to find the exact credentials for your device.

Accessing the modem login page

Once you have the username and password, you reach the modem's settings by opening a web browser and typing the modem's IP address into the address bar. The most common address is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1, though some modems use 192.168.1.1 or a web address like mynetgear.com.

If you are not sure which address your modem uses, check the manual or the sticker on the device. When you type the address, a login page will appear asking for your username and password. Enter the credentials from the sticker, and you will be in the modem's settings.

Why your ISP might have changed the defaults

Some internet providers set up modems with custom usernames and passwords before shipping them to you. If the default credentials do not work, contact your ISP's support line — they can tell you what login they assigned and may reset it for you over the phone.

A few ISPs also lock down modem access entirely, meaning you cannot log in yourself at all. If that is the case, you will need to call them to make any changes to modem settings. Check your ISP's support documentation or call their customer service to find out whether your modem is locked.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the default password does not work?

First, make sure you are typing it exactly as printed — passwords are case-sensitive, and spaces or special characters matter. If it still does not work, your ISP may have changed it during setup. Call your ISP's support line with your account number, and they can reset it or tell you what it is.

Can I change the modem password to something I choose?

Yes. Once you log in with the default credentials, look for a "Settings," "Administration," or "Advanced" section in the modem's web interface. There will be an option to change the password. Write down or save your new password somewhere safe so you do not forget it.

Is it safe to leave the default password on my modem?

Not ideal. Anyone on your network who knows the default password for your modem model can log in and change settings. Changing it to something unique is a straightforward security step. You do not need a complex password — anything you will remember is fine.

What if I cannot find the model number anywhere?

Call your ISP and give them your account number. They can tell you the exact modem model and send you the default credentials or a manual. They may also be able to reset the login remotely if you are locked out.