Check the sticker on your router

The easiest place to find your WiFi username — which is also called your network name or SSID — is on a sticker attached to your router itself. Most routers have a label on the bottom or back that lists the network name and password together. The network name is usually printed as "Network Name," "SSID," or "WiFi Name," and the password appears next to it as "Password," "Passphrase," or "Security Key."

If you can see your router right now, check the sticker first. This takes 30 seconds and saves you from logging into settings. The sticker information is the same whether you own the router or rent it from your internet provider.

Key Takeaways

  • Your WiFi network name is printed on a sticker on the bottom or back of your router, along with the password.
  • If you cannot find the sticker, you can log into your router's settings through a web browser using the router's IP address, usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
  • The default username to enter router settings is often "admin" and the password is either "admin" or "password," though this varies by manufacturer.
  • On Windows, you can see your saved network name and password through Settings > Network > WiFi > Manage Known Networks.
  • On Mac, your saved WiFi network name appears in System Settings > WiFi, and the password is stored in Keychain.

Log into your router through a web browser

If the sticker is missing or unreadable, you can view your network name and password by logging into your router's settings. Open any web browser and type your router's IP address into the address bar. The most common addresses are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Press Enter, and a login page should appear.

When the login screen opens, enter the default username and password. For most routers, the username is admin and the password is either admin or password. Some manufacturers use different defaults — Netgear often uses "admin" and "password," while TP-Link may use "admin" and "admin." If the default credentials do not work, check the router's manual or search online for "[your router model] default login."

Once you are logged in, look for a section labeled "Wireless," "WiFi," "Network," or "Settings." The network name and password are usually displayed on this page. You can also change either one here if you want to create a new network name or password.

Find your network name on Windows

If you are already connected to your WiFi on a Windows computer, you can see the network name and password without touching the router. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks. A list of all networks your computer has ever connected to will appear.

Click on the network you want to view, then select Forget or Properties (the exact button depends on your Windows version). If you see a "Show" button next to the password field, click it to reveal the password in plain text. Write down both the network name and password before you close the window.

Find your network name on Mac

On a Mac, the network name appears in System Settings > WiFi. The name of your currently connected network is shown at the top of the WiFi menu. To see the password, open Spotlight Search (press Command + Space), type "Keychain Access," and open it.

In Keychain Access, search for your network name in the search box at the top right. When your network appears in the list, double-click it. A window will open showing the network details. Check the box next to "Show password," and your Mac will ask you to enter your computer's login password. Once you do, the WiFi password will appear in plain text.

Find your network name on your phone

On an Android phone, go to Settings > System > Languages and Input > Advanced > Passwords (the exact path varies by manufacturer). Look for your WiFi network name in the list. Tap it to view the password. Some Android phones store this information differently, so you may need to search "view saved WiFi password" in your phone's settings search bar.

On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > WiFi and tap the network name you are connected to. The password does not display on the screen, but you can share the network with another Apple device by tapping "Share Password." If you need to see the actual password text, you will need to check your router or use a computer instead.

What to do if you cannot log into your router

If you changed the router password in the past and cannot remember it, you can reset the router to factory settings. Most routers have a small reset button on the back or bottom. Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The router will restart and return to its default network name and password, which are printed on the sticker.

Resetting the router will erase any custom settings you made, including any changes to the network name or password. After the reset, you will need to set up your internet connection again. If you rent your router from your internet provider, contact them before resetting it — they may have locked the settings to prevent changes.

Difference between network name and password

Your network name (SSID) is what you see when you search for WiFi on your phone or computer — it is the name of the network itself. Your password is what you type to connect to that network. You need both pieces of information to connect a new device.

You can change either one without affecting the other. If you want a more recognizable network name or a stronger password, you can update them through your router's settings page. Changes take effect when ready, and all devices will need to reconnect using the new information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I see multiple network names near my home?

Most modern routers broadcast two networks at once: one on the 2.4 GHz band and one on the 5 GHz band. Both use the same password but may have slightly different names (for example, "MyNetwork" and "MyNetwork-5G"). Older devices connect better to 2.4 GHz, while newer devices often prefer 5 GHz for faster speeds. Both are your network — pick whichever one your device connects to most reliably.

Can I change my WiFi network name without losing internet?

Yes. When you change the network name in your router settings, the change takes effect when ready, but your currently connected devices will stay online. Other devices will see the new network name when they search for WiFi. You will need to reconnect them using the new name and the same password.

What if my router does not have a sticker?

Try the default IP address 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in a web browser. If neither works, look up your router model number (usually printed on the device) and search for "[model number] default IP address." You can also contact your internet provider — they can tell you the network name and password over the phone or reset it remotely.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with guests?

Yes, sharing your password with guests is safe. They will only be able to use your internet connection; they cannot see your files or devices unless you have specifically set up file sharing. If you want to give guests temporary access without sharing your main password, many routers allow you to create a separate guest network with its own password.