Where your router stores the login information

Your router's 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" or "Default Login" or sometimes just lists the credentials directly. The username is often "admin" and the password is a string of letters and numbers specific to your router model.

If the sticker is missing or worn away, the manufacturer's website can tell you the default credentials for your exact router model. You will need the model number, which is also on the router's label. Search "[your router brand] [model number] default username password" and you should find the information within seconds.

Keep in mind that if someone has already changed these credentials from the factory defaults, you will need to reset the router to access it again. That is a separate process covered below.

Key Takeaways

  • The default username and password are printed on a physical sticker on your router — check the bottom, back, or sides first.
  • If the sticker is gone, search the manufacturer's website using your router's model number to find the default credentials.
  • If someone has changed the password and you do not know the new one, you can reset the router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds.
  • After resetting, the router will use the default credentials again, but you will lose any custom settings like your WiFi network name and password.

How to log into your router if you have the credentials

Open a web browser on any device connected to your WiFi 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 label for the correct address, which is sometimes different.

When the login page appears, enter the username and password from the sticker. Click "Log In" or "Submit". You should now see your router's settings dashboard, where you can change your WiFi network name, password, security settings, and other configurations.

What to do if the password has been changed

If you cannot log in with the default credentials, someone has already changed the password. The only way to regain access is to reset the router to its factory settings. This erases all custom settings, including your WiFi network name and password, so use this only as a last resort.

Locate the small reset button on your router — it is usually recessed into the case so you cannot press it by accident. Use a paperclip, pen, or the tip of a straightened paper clip to press and hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights on the router will blink or change color, which signals the reset is happening. Release the button and wait for the router to restart, which takes about a minute.

Once the restart is complete, the router will use its default username and password again. You can then log in using the credentials from the sticker and set up your WiFi network from scratch.

Finding credentials for routers provided by your internet service provider

If your internet service provider (ISP) gave you the router — for example, Comcast's Xfinity router or a modem-router combo — the default credentials may be different from standard routers. Check the sticker on the device first, as ISPs usually print their own login information there.

If the sticker does not have the credentials, contact your ISP's customer support. They can tell you the default username and password or reset it remotely. Some ISPs also let you manage your router through their own app or website, which may be easier than logging in directly to the device.

Why you should change the default password

The default password is the same for every router of that model. Anyone who knows your router model can look up the default credentials online and access your network settings. Changing the password to something unique protects your WiFi from unauthorized access and prevents someone from changing your settings or monitoring your traffic.

After you log in with the default credentials, look for a "Settings," "Administration," or "Security" section in your router's dashboard. There should be an option to change the admin password. Choose something long and random — at least 12 characters mixing uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols — and write it down somewhere safe in case you need it later.

Recovering a forgotten password without resetting

Some newer routers let you recover your password through an email address or phone number you registered when you first set up the device. Check your router manufacturer's website to see if they offer a password recovery tool. You will need to provide proof that you own the router, usually by entering the device's serial number or MAC address.

This option is not available on all routers, especially older models. If your router does not support password recovery, resetting to factory defaults is your only option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if neither 192.168.1.1 nor 192.168.0.1 works?

Check the sticker on your router for the correct address, which is sometimes listed as "Gateway" or "Admin URL". You can also open a command prompt on Windows and type "ipconfig" or on Mac open Terminal and type "netstat -nr" to find your router's IP address in the network information displayed.

Will resetting my router delete my internet connection?

No. Resetting the router erases your custom WiFi settings like your network name and password, but your internet service itself remains active. You will need to reconnect to your WiFi after the reset and set up a new network name and password.

Can I find my WiFi password if I only know the network name?

Yes, if you can log into the router using the admin credentials. Once you are in the settings dashboard, look for "Wireless," "WiFi," or "Network" settings. Your current WiFi password will be listed there, usually in a field labeled "Password," "Passphrase," or "Pre-Shared Key."

Is it safe to use the default username and password long-term?

No. Anyone with access to your router model number can look up the default credentials and change your settings or monitor your network. Change the admin password to something unique as soon as you log in for the first time.

What if I lost the router entirely and need to buy a new one?

Any new router will come with its own sticker containing default credentials. You can use those to log in and set up your network. Your ISP may also provide a replacement router if yours is damaged or lost.