Where to find your WiFi username and password

Your WiFi username and password are printed on a sticker attached to your router — the device that broadcasts your wireless signal. Look for a label on the bottom, back, or side of the router. The username is usually called SSID (Service Set Identifier) or Network Name. The password is usually called Password, Passphrase, or Security Key. Write down both exactly as they appear, including capital letters and numbers.

If the sticker is missing or unreadable, you can find this information through your router's settings page or through your internet provider's account portal. The method depends on what type of router you have and whether you set up a custom password when you first installed it.

Key Takeaways

  • Your WiFi username and password are printed on a sticker on your router's bottom, back, or side.
  • The username is labeled SSID or Network Name; the password is labeled Password, Passphrase, or Security Key.
  • If the sticker is gone, you can find both pieces of information by logging into your router's settings page using the default admin password.
  • Your internet provider's website or app often shows your WiFi details if you log in with your account credentials.
  • Write down the username and password exactly as they appear, including uppercase and lowercase letters.

Checking the router sticker first

Before you try anything else, physically inspect your router. Most routers have a label on the underside or back panel that lists the default network name and password. Pick up the router carefully and look at every side. The sticker usually shows a QR code, the SSID, and the password printed in a small font.

Copy the information word-for-word. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, meaning uppercase and lowercase letters are different. If the sticker shows "MyNetwork2024!" you must type it exactly that way — "mynetwork2024!" will not work. Take a photo of the sticker with your phone so you have a backup copy.

Logging into your router's settings page

If the sticker is missing or damaged, you can view your WiFi details by logging into the router itself. Open a web browser on any device connected to your WiFi and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. Press Enter. A login page should appear asking for a username and password.

For the login, use the default credentials printed on the router's label — usually admin for both username and password, though some routers use admin and password. Once you are logged in, look for a section called Wireless, WiFi, Network, or Settings. Your network name and password will be listed there. If you changed these from the default when you first set up the router, this is where you will see your custom information.

If the default login does not work, restart the router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, plugging it back in, and waiting two minutes for it to fully start up. Then try again. If you still cannot log in, you may have changed the admin password at some point — in that case, contact your internet provider for help.

Checking your internet provider's account portal

Your internet provider usually has a website or mobile app where you can log in with your account credentials. Once logged in, look for a section labeled Internet, WiFi, Devices, or My Services. Your WiFi network name and password are often displayed there. This method works even if you cannot access the router itself.

Common providers include Comcast Xfinity, Verizon Fios, AT&T, Charter Spectrum, and Cox. Each has a different portal layout, but they all show WiFi details somewhere in the account settings. If you do not remember your provider account password, use the "Forgot Password" link on their login page to reset it.

What to do if you changed your password and forgot it

If you customized your WiFi password after setup and no longer remember it, you have two options. The first is to reset the router to its factory defaults by holding down the small reset button on the back of the router for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases all your custom settings and returns the network name and password to what is printed on the sticker. You will need to set up your WiFi again from scratch, including reconnecting all your devices.

The second option is to contact your internet provider's support team. They can sometimes help you recover the password or reset the router remotely without losing your settings. Have your account number ready when you call.

Viewing your password on devices already connected

If you are already connected to your WiFi on a phone or computer, you can view the saved password on that device without accessing the router.

On Windows: Go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then WiFi. Click "Manage Known Networks," select your network, and click "Properties." Scroll down to "Security" and toggle "Show" next to the password field.

On Mac: Open Keychain Access (search for it in Spotlight). Search for your network name. Double-click the entry, check "Show password," and enter your Mac login password when prompted.

On iPhone or iPad: Go to Settings, then WiFi. Tap the information icon next to your network name. You cannot view the password directly, but you can share it with another Apple device by holding your phone near theirs — they will see a prompt to join.

On Android: Go to Settings, then WiFi. Long-press your network name and tap "Manage." Look for a QR code or password field. Some Android versions show the password directly; others require you to scan a QR code with another device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my WiFi password different from what is on the sticker?

You likely changed it after you first set up the router. The sticker shows the default password that came from the manufacturer. If you customized it, check your router's settings page or your provider's account portal to see the current password. Write it down so you have it for future reference.

Can I see my WiFi password if I am not connected to the network?

Not from a device itself. You would need to access the router's settings page (using 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) or log into your internet provider's account portal. Both require you to be on a different network or use a wired connection to the router.

What if I cannot find the router's IP address?

Try both 192.168.1.1 and 192.168.0.1. If neither works, check the router's label for the correct address — it is usually listed there. You can also restart the router and try again, as the address sometimes changes after a reboot.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with guests?

Yes. Sharing your WiFi password does not put your personal files or accounts at risk. If you want to change the password later or remove someone's access, you can do so through the router settings. Consider creating a guest network instead if your router supports it — this lets visitors connect without knowing your main password.

What should I do if someone else knows my WiFi password and I want to change it?

Log into your router's settings page and look for the wireless or WiFi section. Change the password to something new and save the changes. The router will disconnect all devices, and you will need to reconnect them using the new password. Write down the new password and store it somewhere safe.