Where to look for your router's default credentials

Your router's default username and password are printed on a sticker attached to the device itself — usually on the bottom, back, or side. Look for a label that lists "Username" or "User ID" and "Password" or "Pass". The sticker may also show the router model number and the Wi-Fi network name.

If the sticker is missing or worn away, you can find the same information in your router's manual. Check the box your router came in, or search online for "[your router model] default username password" — for example, "TP-Link Archer A6 default username password". Most manufacturers publish this information on their support pages.

Common default usernames are admin or root. Common default passwords are admin, password, or 12345. Some routers leave the password field blank. If you have not changed these credentials since setup, these defaults will work.

Key Takeaways

  • The default username and password are printed on a physical sticker on your router — check the bottom or back of the device first.
  • If the sticker is missing, search for your router model number plus "default username password" to find the information on the manufacturer's website.
  • Most routers use admin as the default username and either admin or a blank password field as the default password.
  • If you changed the password after setup and cannot remember it, you will need to reset the router to factory settings, which erases all your custom settings.

How to log in to your router with the default credentials

Open a web browser on a device connected to your router — either by Wi-Fi or ethernet cable. Type your router's IP address into the address bar. The most common IP address is 192.168.1.1, but some routers use 192.168.0.1 or 10.0.0.1. Check your router's sticker or manual to confirm the correct address.

A login page will appear. Enter the username and password from the sticker. If you see an error message, double-check that you typed them correctly — passwords are case-sensitive. If the login still fails, the password may have been changed since the router was set up, or the router may need to be reset.

What to do if you changed the password and cannot remember it

If you set a new password after setup and have forgotten it, the only way to regain access is to reset the router to its factory settings. This erases all your custom settings, including your Wi-Fi network name and password, port forwarding rules, and any other changes you made.

To reset your router, locate the small reset button — usually recessed into the case 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 router is powered on. The lights will flash and the router will restart. Once it boots up, you can log in again using the default username and password from the sticker.

After a factory reset, you will need to set up your Wi-Fi network again, reconnect your devices, and reconfigure any custom settings you had before.

Why you should change the default password

The default username and password are the same for every router of that model. Anyone who knows the model number can look up the defaults and log into your router if they are within Wi-Fi range. Changing the password to something only you know prevents unauthorized access to your network settings.

Once you log in with the default credentials, look for a "Settings", "Administration", or "System" section in the router's menu. Most routers have a page labeled "Change Password" or "Change Admin Password". Enter a new password that is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Write it down or store it in a password manager so you do not lose it.

Finding credentials for a router you did not set up

If you inherited a router from a previous owner or tenant, the password may have been changed from the default. Contact the person who set it up if possible — they may remember the password or have written it down.

If you cannot reach them, your only option is a factory reset. This will restore the default credentials, but you will lose any custom settings the previous owner configured. After reset, change the password when ready to something new so you are the only one who knows it.

Routers that require a setup app instead of a web login

Some newer routers, particularly mesh systems like Eero or Google Nest Wifi, do not use a traditional web login. Instead, they require you to use a mobile app to set up and manage the network. The app will prompt you to create a username and password during initial setup.

If you have forgotten the password for an app-based router, check whether the app has a "Forgot Password" option. If not, you will need to reset the router using the physical reset button and set it up again from scratch using the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the default username and password do not work?

The password may have been changed after setup. Try leaving the password field blank — some routers ship with no password set. If that fails, perform a factory reset using the recessed reset button on the back or bottom of the router. Hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on.

Can I log in to my router from outside my home?

Not through the standard web interface. The login page at 192.168.1.1 only works when you are connected to the router's network. Some routers offer a cloud-based app or remote management feature, but this must be enabled in the settings first and requires a separate login.

Is it safe to use the default password?

No. Anyone who knows your router model can look up the default password and access your network settings. Change the default password to something unique as soon as you log in. This prevents unauthorized changes to your Wi-Fi network or router configuration.

What happens if I reset my router?

A factory reset erases all custom settings and returns the router to its original state. Your Wi-Fi network name and password will be reset to the defaults, all connected devices will be disconnected, and any port forwarding or other configuration changes will be lost. You will need to set everything up again.

Where is the reset button located?

The reset button is usually a small recessed hole on the back or bottom of the router. It is designed to be hard to press accidentally. Use a paperclip, pen tip, or similar tool to press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. Check your router's manual if you cannot find it.