How to Reset Your WiFi Password on Your Router

Find Your Router and Locate the Reset Button

Your router is the box that broadcasts WiFi throughout your home — usually a rectangular device with antennas, placed near your modem or on a shelf. The reset button is almost always on the back or bottom of the router, often recessed into a small hole so you cannot press it by accident.

Before you reset, know that this action will erase your current WiFi password and return all router settings to factory defaults. This means your WiFi network name will revert to a generic default (often something like "NETGEAR-5G" or "TP-Link"), and any devices currently connected will lose their connection. You will need to reconnect them afterward using the new password you create.

If you want to change your password without erasing everything else, skip the reset button and go straight to the section "Change Your Password Without Resetting the Router" below. That method works if you can still access your router's settings page.

Key Takeaways

The reset button on your router is usually a recessed hole on the back or bottom that requires a paperclip or pen to press for 10 to 15 seconds.
Resetting your router erases your current WiFi password and all custom settings, returning the device to factory defaults.
After a reset, your router will broadcast a default network name and password printed on a sticker on the device itself.
If you can still log into your router's settings page, you can change your password without resetting — this preserves all your other settings.
Most routers take two to five minutes to fully restart after a reset, during which your WiFi will be unavailable.

Press and Hold the Reset Button

Locate a paperclip, pen, or similar thin object. Insert it into the reset button hole on the back or bottom of your router. Press and hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds — do not release early. You may see lights on the router flicker or turn off during this time. This is normal.

After you release the button, the router will begin restarting. This process usually takes two to five minutes. During this time, the lights on the router may flash in different patterns as it powers down and boots back up. Do not unplug the router during this restart — let it complete on its own.

Once the lights stabilize and stop flashing, the reset is complete. Your router is now back to its factory settings, and your WiFi network will broadcast under its default name.

Find the Default Network Name and Password

Look for a sticker on the back, bottom, or inside the battery compartment of your router. This sticker contains the default network name (also called SSID) and the default password. The sticker typically shows something like "Network Name: NETGEAR-5G" and "Password: abc123def456" — the exact format varies by manufacturer.

Write down both the network name and password from the sticker. You will use these to connect your devices to WiFi again. If the sticker is missing or unreadable, you can find the default credentials by searching online for your router model number (printed on the sticker or the device itself) plus the word "default password".

Connect a Device and Log Into the Router Settings

On a phone, tablet, or computer, open your WiFi settings and select the default network name from the sticker. When prompted for a password, enter the default password exactly as it appears on the sticker. Once connected, open a web browser.

In the address bar, type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 and press Enter. A login page should appear. If neither address works, check the sticker on your router — some manufacturers use a different address, often printed as "Admin URL" or similar.

When the login page appears, enter the default username and password from the sticker. Most routers use "admin" as the username and the password from the sticker, though some use "admin" for both fields. Once you log in, you will see your router's settings dashboard.

Create a New WiFi Password

Look for a section labeled "WiFi Settings", "Wireless", "Network", or "Security" — the exact name varies by router brand. Click into this section. You should see a field for the WiFi password, often labeled "Passphrase", "Pre-Shared Key", or "Password".

Delete the current default password and type in a new one. Use at least 12 characters that mix uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (like ! or @). Avoid using your name, address, or obvious words — these are straightforward to guess. Write down your new password in a safe place before you save it.

Click the Save or explore button. Your router will restart briefly — this usually takes 30 seconds to two minutes. During this time, your WiFi will disconnect. Once the restart is complete, your new network name and password will be active.

Change Your Password Without Resetting the Router

If you remember your router's login password or can still access the settings page, you do not need to reset the device. This method keeps all your other settings intact — your connected devices will stay configured, and your network name stays the same.

Open a web browser on any device connected to your WiFi. Type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. When the login page appears, enter your username and password. If you have forgotten these, check any paperwork that came with your router, or look for them in an email from your internet provider — they sometimes send these details when you set up service.

Once logged in, navigate to the WiFi or Wireless settings section. Find the password field, delete the old password, and type in a new one. Save your changes. Your router will restart briefly, and your new password will take effect. All your devices will need to reconnect using the new password.

Reconnect Your Devices to WiFi

After your new password is active, go to each device (phone, tablet, computer, smart TV, printer, etc.) and open its WiFi settings. Find your network name in the list of available networks. If you reset your router, the network name will be the default one from the sticker. If you changed the password without resetting, the network name stays the same.

Select the network and enter your new password when prompted. Type it carefully — passwords are case-sensitive, meaning uppercase and lowercase letters are different. Once you enter the password correctly, the device will connect and remember it for future use.

Repeat this process for each device in your home. Some devices (like older smart home gadgets) may not reconnect automatically — you may need to remove the old network from the device's memory first, then add it again with the new password. Check the device's manual or settings if you get stuck on a particular item.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I press the reset button and nothing happens?

Make sure you are pressing the button firmly and holding it for the full 10 to 15 seconds. Some reset buttons require significant pressure. If the router still does not reset, try unplugging it from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in — this sometimes forces a restart. If it still does not work, the reset button may be broken, and you will need to contact your router manufacturer or internet provider for help.

Can I reset my router if my internet is not working?

Yes. The reset button works whether or not your internet connection is active. Resetting the router itself does not depend on internet service — it only resets the device to its factory settings. However, after the reset, you will still need internet service to use WiFi, just as before.

Will resetting my router affect my internet speed?

No. Resetting the router returns it to factory settings but does not change your internet plan or the speed your provider gives you. Your speed depends on your service plan, not on the router's password or settings. If you were experiencing slow speeds before the reset, they will likely remain the same afterward.

What if I cannot find the default password on the sticker?

Search online for your router model number (found on the sticker or device) plus "default password". Most manufacturers publish these online. If the sticker is completely worn away, you can also contact your internet provider — they often have records of your router's default credentials, or they can send you a replacement sticker.

Do I have to change the default network name, or just the password?

You only have to change the password. The network name (SSID) can stay as the default if you prefer. However, changing the network name to something you recognize makes it easier to find your WiFi when connecting new devices. Both the name and password are changed in the same WiFi settings section of your router.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.