Where to look for your modem login information

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 "Default Login." Most modems ship with a default username like admin and a default password like motorola, admin, or a blank field.

If you cannot find the sticker or it is worn away, the manual that came with your modem has this information. You can also search the modem's model number (printed on the same sticker) plus "default username password" to find the factory defaults online. The model number looks like "MB7621" or "SB6121" depending on your modem brand.

Keep in mind that if someone has already changed these credentials from the factory defaults, the sticker will no longer be accurate. In that case, you will need to reset the modem to factory settings, which erases any custom configuration you made.

Key Takeaways

  • The default username and password are printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of your modem.
  • Common default usernames are admin or root, and common passwords are motorola, admin, or blank.
  • If the sticker is missing or worn, search your modem's model number plus "default login" to find the factory credentials.
  • If credentials have been changed from the factory defaults, you will need to reset the modem to access the login page.

How to reset your modem to factory defaults

If the default credentials do not work, your modem has likely been reconfigured. To restore the factory username and password, locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of the modem. Press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds using a paperclip or pen tip — the button is recessed so you cannot press it with your finger.

When you release the button, the modem will restart and all lights will blink. This process takes two to three minutes. Once the lights stabilize, the modem is back to factory settings and you can use the default credentials from the sticker. Be aware that resetting erases any custom settings, port forwarding rules, or network names you configured.

After you log in with the default credentials, change the password when ready to something only you know. This prevents neighbors or visitors from accessing your modem settings.

Accessing your modem's login page

Once you have the username and password, open a web browser on any device connected to your network. Type 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1 into the address bar and press Enter. Most modems use one of these two addresses, though some use 192.168.1.1 or a web address like mymodem.local.

A login screen will appear asking for your username and password. Enter the credentials from the sticker and click "Log In." If none of the common addresses work, check your modem's manual or search the model number plus "login address" online.

If you are still unable to reach the login page, make sure your device is connected to your modem's network, not a different WiFi network. You can also try a different browser or clear your browser's cache and cookies.

What to do if you forgot a changed password

If someone changed the password from the default and you do not have a record of it, resetting the modem is your only option. The reset button will restore the factory credentials so you can log back in. There is no way to recover a forgotten custom password without resetting.

After you reset and log in again, write down the new password you create and store it somewhere safe — a password manager, a locked note, or a physical notebook kept in a drawer. This prevents you from being locked out again.

Different modem brands and their defaults

Motorola modems typically use admin and motorola. Arris and SB modems often use admin and motorola as well. Netgear modems usually default to admin and password. Linksys modems often use admin with a blank password field.

These are the most common defaults, but your specific model may differ. The sticker on your device is always the source of truth. If the sticker shows something different, use what the sticker says rather than guessing based on the brand.

Why you might need modem login information

You log into your modem to change your WiFi network name and password, restart the connection, check your internet speed, or adjust advanced settings like port forwarding. Most people never need to log in after the initial setup, but knowing where to find these credentials means you can troubleshoot connection problems without calling your internet provider.

Your modem login is separate from your router login. If you have a separate router connected to your modem, that device has its own username and password, usually printed on a different sticker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the modem password the same as my WiFi password?

No. Your modem password controls access to the modem's settings page. Your WiFi password is what you use to connect devices to your network. They are completely separate. You set your WiFi password inside the modem's settings page after you log in.

Can I change my modem username?

Most modems allow you to change the password but not the username. The username is usually locked as admin or root. After you log in, look for a "Change Password" or "Administration" section in the settings menu.

What if the reset button does not work?

Hold it for a full 15 seconds — many people release too early. If the modem still does not reset, try unplugging it for 30 seconds, plugging it back in, and then pressing the reset button while it boots up. If it still does not work, contact your internet provider for a replacement modem.

Is it safe to share my modem password with someone?

No. Anyone with your modem password can change your WiFi settings, restart your connection, or modify advanced configurations. Only share your WiFi password, not your modem login credentials. Keep the modem password to yourself.