Where to find your modem login information
Your modem's username and password are usually printed on a sticker attached to the device itself — typically on the back or bottom. Look for a label that says "Admin," "Login," or "Default Credentials." Most modems ship with a default username like admin and a default password like motorola, admin, or password, though the exact pair depends on your modem's manufacturer.
If the sticker is missing or unreadable, you can find this information in your modem's manual. Check the documentation that came in the box, or search online for "[your modem model number] default username password" — for example, "Netgear CM500 default credentials." Most manufacturers publish this information on their support pages.
Your internet service provider (ISP) may also have set custom credentials when they installed your modem. If the default username and password do not work, contact your ISP's support line — they can tell you what login information they assigned, or they can reset the modem to factory defaults so you can use the manufacturer's credentials.
Key Takeaways
- The modem's default username and password are printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device.
- Common default usernames are admin or administrator, and common passwords are motorola, admin, or password.
- If you cannot find the sticker, search for your modem model number plus "default credentials" to find the information online.
- Your ISP may have changed the default password during installation, so call them if the factory credentials do not work.
How to access your modem's login page
Once you have the username and password, open a web browser on any device connected to your network and type your modem's IP address into the address bar. For most modems, this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1. The exact address is usually printed on the sticker next to the login credentials.
A login page will appear asking for your username and password. Enter the credentials from the sticker or from your ISP, and you will be taken to the modem's settings dashboard. From there you can view your connection status, restart the modem, or change advanced settings.
What to do if the default password does not work
If you enter the default username and password and the modem rejects them, your ISP likely changed them during setup. Call your ISP's customer support and tell them you need the modem login credentials. They can either provide the password they set, or they can walk you through a factory reset that will restore the modem to its original default credentials.
A factory reset erases any custom settings your ISP configured, so you may need to reconnect to your internet after the reset. Your ISP can guide you through reconnecting, or you can restart the modem and let it automatically reconfigure itself — this usually takes a few minutes.
Why you might need modem credentials
You need modem login information if you want to restart the device from its settings page, check your connection status, or change advanced network settings like port forwarding or DNS. Most people never need to log in — the modem works fine without touching the settings. But if your internet is unstable or you are troubleshooting a connection problem, accessing the modem's dashboard can help you see what is happening.
You may also need to log in if you are setting up a new device on your network or if you want to change your WiFi password. Some of these tasks can be done through your router instead, so check whether you need the modem login or the router login before you start.
Difference between modem and router credentials
Your modem and router are separate devices with separate login credentials. The modem connects to your ISP and brings internet into your home. The router takes that internet and broadcasts it wirelessly. They usually have different IP addresses, different default usernames and passwords, and different settings pages.
If you are trying to change your WiFi network name or password, you almost certainly need your router credentials, not your modem credentials. The modem does not control WiFi — the router does. Check whether the sticker you are looking at is on the modem or the router, because they are often mounted near each other and it is straightforward to grab the wrong one.
Keeping your modem find after login
Once you log in to your modem, consider changing the default password to something only you know. This prevents anyone else on your network from accessing the modem's settings and changing your internet configuration. Most modems have a "Change Password" or "Administration" section in the settings menu where you can do this.
Write down your new password and store it somewhere safe — not on a sticky note on the modem. If you forget it later, you can always do a factory reset and start over with the default credentials, but that will also erase any custom settings you have made.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the default password for my modem?
The default password depends on your modem's manufacturer. Common defaults are motorola, admin, password, or 12345. Check the sticker on your modem or search online for your specific model number to find the exact default.
Can I reset my modem password if I forgot it?
Yes. Press and hold the reset button on the back of your modem for 10 to 15 seconds. This restores the modem to factory defaults, including the original username and password. Your internet settings will also reset, so you may need to reconnect through your ISP afterward.
Is 192.168.0.1 the same for all modems?
No. Most modems use 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1, but some use different addresses. Check the sticker on your modem or your manual to find the correct IP address for your specific model.
Do I need the modem password to change my WiFi password?
Usually not. WiFi settings are controlled by your router, not your modem. You need the router's login credentials to change your WiFi name and password. Check whether you are looking at the router or the modem before you start.