Your router's default username and password are printed on a sticker

The sticker is usually on the back or bottom of the router itself. Look for a label that says "Default Username" or "Admin" and "Default Password" or "WiFi Password" — they are often listed separately. Write down both before you do anything else, because you will need them to log in to your router's settings page.

If the sticker is worn off or missing, the default credentials are also in your router's manual. Check the box your router came in, or search online for "[your router model] default username password" — most manufacturers publish this information on their support pages.

Common default usernames are admin, root, or administrator. Common default passwords are admin, password, 12345, or blank (meaning you leave the password field empty). Your specific router may use different ones, so the sticker is your most reliable source.

Key Takeaways

  • The default username and password are printed on a physical sticker attached to your router, usually on the back or bottom.
  • If the sticker is missing or unreadable, check the manual that came with your router or search the manufacturer's support website.
  • Default usernames are often "admin" or "root," and default passwords are often "admin," "password," or blank, but yours may differ.
  • Write down both the username and password before you try to log in, so you have them if you need to access your router settings later.
  • If you have changed the password since you first set up the router, the default credentials will no longer work.

Where to look on your physical router

Start with the back panel. Most routers have a label stuck directly to the plastic casing. The label lists the model number, serial number, and login information all in one place. If nothing is on the back, check the bottom — some routers have the sticker on the underside.

If your router is mounted on a wall, you may need to unplug it and take it down to see the sticker clearly. Use a flashlight if the label is hard to read. Take a photo of the sticker with your phone so you have a copy if you need it later.

Finding credentials if the sticker is gone

The manual that came in your router's box has the default username and password printed inside. If you no longer have the physical manual, visit the manufacturer's website and search for your router model number. Most companies offer PDF manuals for read on their support pages.

You can also search "[router brand] [model number] default login" in a search engine. Manufacturer support pages and router documentation sites will show you the credentials. Make sure you are reading information from the official manufacturer's website, not a third-party site, to avoid incorrect information.

What happens if you have already changed the password

If you set up your router yourself and changed the default password, the original credentials will not work anymore. You will need to use the new username and password you created instead.

If you cannot remember the password you set, you can reset the router to its factory defaults. Most routers have a small reset button on the back that you hold down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. This erases all your custom settings and returns the router to the state it left the factory, which means the default username and password will work again. After a reset, you will need to set up your WiFi network and password from scratch.

How to use the username and password to log in

Open a web browser on a computer or phone connected to your WiFi network. Type your router's IP address into the address bar — this is usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, but check your manual or the sticker to be sure. Press Enter.

A login page will appear asking for a username and password. Enter the default username and password from your sticker or manual. Click "Log In" or "Submit." You should now see your router's settings page, where you can change WiFi settings, update firmware, or adjust security options.

Why the default password matters

The default password protects your router's settings from being changed by someone else on your network. If you never change it, anyone who knows the default credentials for your router model could log in and alter your WiFi name, password, or security settings.

After you first log in with the default credentials, you should change the password to something only you know. Most routers have an "Administration" or "Settings" section where you can create a new password. This is different from your WiFi password — it only protects access to the router's control panel, not your internet connection itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the default username and password do not work?

The credentials may have been changed since the router was first set up. If you changed them yourself, use the password you created. If someone else set up the router, ask them for the password. If you cannot recover it, you can reset the router to factory defaults by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds, which will restore the default credentials.

Is the WiFi password the same as the router login password?

No. The WiFi password is what you use to connect devices to your internet. The router login password protects access to the router's settings page. They are separate and can be different. You need the router login password only if you want to change WiFi settings or update the router itself.

Where is the IP address to log into my router?

The IP address is usually printed on the sticker on your router, often listed as "Gateway" or "Router Address." It is commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Type this address into your web browser's address bar while connected to your WiFi to reach the login page.

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

By default, no. You must be connected to your WiFi network or plugged into the router with an ethernet cable to access the login page. Some routers offer remote management features, but these are turned off by default for security reasons and require you to enable them in the settings.