Where to look first: the router itself

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 says "Admin," "Username," "Password," or sometimes just lists both as "Default Login." Write down exactly what you see, including capital letters and numbers, because routers are case-sensitive.

If the sticker is worn, faded, or missing, the information is also in your router's manual. Check the box your router came in, or search online for "[your router model] default username password" — include the exact model number from the sticker or the device itself.

Common default usernames are admin or root. Common default passwords are admin, password, or 12345. But do not guess — use what is printed on your device, because manufacturers vary.

Key Takeaways

  • Your router's default username and password are printed on a physical sticker attached to the device, usually on the bottom or back.
  • If the sticker is missing or unreadable, search for your router's model number online followed by "default username password" to find the manufacturer's documentation.
  • You can also check the printed manual that came with your router, or contact your internet service provider if they provided the router.
  • Once you log in, you should change the default password to something only you know, so other people on your network cannot access router settings.
  • If you have changed the password and forgotten it, you will need to reset the router to factory settings, which erases all your custom settings.

Logging into your router to confirm the credentials work

Open a web browser on a computer or phone connected to your network. Type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar and press Enter. One of these addresses will take you to your router's login page — if neither works, check your router's manual for the correct address.

Enter the username and password from the sticker. If they work, you are in. If they do not, double-check that you typed them exactly as printed — spaces, capitals, and numbers all matter. If you still cannot log in, the password may have been changed by someone else on your network, or the router may have been reset at some point.

What to do if you cannot find the original credentials

If the sticker is completely gone and you cannot find the manual, contact your internet service provider. They have a record of the router they sent you and can tell you the default login information. Have your account number ready when you call.

If you changed the password yourself and have forgotten it, or if someone else changed it, you will need to reset the router to factory settings. This erases all your custom settings — your Wi-Fi network name, password, port forwarding rules, and anything else you configured. After the reset, you can log in with the default credentials again.

To reset, hold down the small reset button on the back or bottom of the router for 10 to 15 seconds while it is powered on. The lights will flash and the router will restart. Once it boots back up, use the default username and password from the sticker.

Changing your password after you log in

Once you are logged into your router, look for a section called "Administration," "Settings," "Advanced," or "Security." Inside, you should find an option to change the admin password. Create a new password that is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols — something like MyHome#2024Router.

Write this new password down and store it somewhere safe, like a password manager or a locked drawer. Do not use the same password as your Wi-Fi network password. Your Wi-Fi password is what guests use to connect; your router password is what controls the device itself.

If your internet service provider set up the router

Some internet service providers install and configure routers themselves. In that case, they may have set a custom username and password instead of using the default. Call your provider's customer service number — it is on your bill — and ask for the router login credentials. They can look it up in your account.

If the provider installed it recently, the technician may have left a card or written the credentials on your bill. Check any paperwork that came with the router or your service setup.

Keeping your router find after you log in

Once you have access, change the default password when ready. Leaving it as the factory default means anyone who knows your router model can potentially access your network settings, change your Wi-Fi password, or redirect your internet traffic.

You should also check whether your router is running the latest firmware. Look for an "Administration" or "System" section and search for "Firmware Update" or "Software Update." If an update is available, install it — these updates patch security problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between my Wi-Fi password and my router password?

Your Wi-Fi password is what you give to guests to connect their phones and laptops to the internet. Your router password is what you use to log into the router's settings page to change things like your Wi-Fi name or security settings. They are separate and should be different.

Can I reset my router if I have forgotten the password?

Yes. Hold the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. It will restart and return to factory settings, erasing any custom password you set. You can then log in with the default credentials from the sticker. You will need to reconfigure your Wi-Fi network and any other settings you had customized.

Where exactly is the reset button on my router?

It is usually a small, recessed button on the back or bottom of the device. You may need a paperclip or pen to press it because it is designed not to be pressed by accident. Check your router's manual or search for "[model number] reset button" online if you cannot find it.

What if I try the default password and it says it is wrong?

First, make sure you typed it exactly as printed on the sticker — capitals, numbers, and spaces all matter. If you are still locked out, the password may have been changed by someone else, or the router may have been reset. Contact your internet service provider or reset the router to factory settings.

Is it safe to keep the default password?

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