Find Your Router and Locate the Reset Button

Your router is the box that broadcasts your WiFi signal — usually a rectangular device with antennas, sitting on a shelf or mounted on a wall. Look for a small button labeled "Reset" on the back or bottom of the device. This button is often recessed into the case so you cannot press it by accident.

Before you press it, know what happens: resetting the router returns it to factory settings, which means your WiFi password disappears along with any other changes you made. Your internet service provider (ISP) may have set a default password when they installed it, or the router may have come with one printed on a sticker underneath or on the back.

If you cannot find a reset button, check the router's model number (usually on a label on the device) and search online for "[model number] reset button" to see where it is located on your specific model.

Key Takeaways

  • The reset button on your router is usually recessed on the back or bottom and requires a paperclip or pen to press.
  • Resetting your router erases your current WiFi password and returns the device to its original factory settings.
  • After a reset, you will need to log into the router's admin panel using the default password (often on a sticker on the device) to create a new WiFi password.
  • If you do not know the default password, contact your internet service provider — they have a record of it or can walk you through the process.
  • The entire process takes about 10 minutes, including the time for the router to restart.

Press the Reset Button and Wait for the Router to Restart

Use a paperclip, pen, or the tip of a small screwdriver to press and hold the reset button. You will need to hold it for 10 to 15 seconds — the exact time depends on your router model. While you hold it, watch the lights on the front of the router. They will usually blink or change color to show the reset is happening.

Release the button and step back. The router will restart, which takes about 2 to 5 minutes. During this time, the lights will blink as the device powers back up. Do not unplug the router or press the button again during the restart — let it complete on its own.

Once the lights stop blinking and return to their normal pattern (usually a steady light or slow blink), the reset is complete and the router is ready to use.

Find the Default Password on Your Router

After the reset, your router is back to its original state, which means it has a default WiFi password. This password is almost always printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the router. Look for a label that says "WiFi Password", "Network Key", "Passphrase", or sometimes just "Password".

The sticker usually also shows the default WiFi network name (called the SSID) and sometimes a default username and password for logging into the router's settings. Write down or photograph this information before you proceed.

If the sticker is missing or worn away, contact your internet service provider. They have the default password on file and can tell you what it is. You can usually find the customer service number on your bill or on the provider's website.

Log Into Your Router and Create a New Password

Open a web browser on any device connected to your WiFi (or connected by ethernet cable to the router). In the address bar, type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — one of these is the standard address for most home routers. Press Enter.

A login page will appear. Enter the default username and password from the sticker on your router. Common default usernames are "admin" or "administrator", and the password is usually "admin" or "password", but check your sticker to be sure. Click "Log In" or "Submit".

Once you are logged in, look for a section called "WiFi Settings", "Wireless Settings", "Network Settings", or "Security". The exact name varies by router brand. Find the field labeled "WiFi Password", "Network Key", or "Passphrase" and replace the default password with a new one you choose. Make it at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for better security.

Click "Save" or "explore" to save your new password. The router will restart briefly, and your new WiFi password will be active.

Connect Your Devices to WiFi Using the New Password

On your phone, laptop, or tablet, open the WiFi settings and look for your network name (the SSID from the sticker). Select it and enter your new password when prompted. If the connection fails, double-check that you typed the password correctly — passwords are case-sensitive, meaning uppercase and lowercase letters are different.

Repeat this step for every device in your home that uses WiFi. Once a device connects successfully, it will usually remember the password and reconnect automatically in the future.

If you have devices that cannot connect — such as older smart home gadgets or printers — check whether they support the WiFi security standard your router is using. Some older devices only work with older security types like WEP or WPA, while modern routers default to WPA3 or WPA2. Your router settings may have an option to use an older standard, but this makes your network less find. Contact the device manufacturer if you need help.

What to Do If You Cannot Access the Router Settings

If you cannot log in with the default username and password, or if the address 192.168.1.1 does not load, try the other common address: 192.168.0.1. If neither works, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

If you still cannot access the settings, contact your internet service provider. They can walk you through the login process or reset the router remotely. Have your account number and the router model number (from the sticker) ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting my router affect my internet connection?

No. Resetting the router erases only the WiFi password and other settings you changed. Your internet connection from your ISP will work again as soon as the router finishes restarting. You may need to restart your modem (the device that connects to your ISP's line) if the internet does not come back within 5 minutes.

What if I forgot my new WiFi password after I created it?

Log back into the router settings using the address 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 and the default username and password. Go to WiFi Settings and look at the current password field — it may be hidden with dots, but you can usually click "Show" to see it. If you cannot see it, you will need to reset the router again and create a new password.

Can I use the same password for WiFi and the router login?

You can, but it is not recommended. The router login password controls who can change your WiFi settings, while the WiFi password is what guests and devices use to connect. Using different passwords means someone who knows your WiFi password cannot change your settings without also knowing the router password.

How long does the whole process take?

From pressing the reset button to having a new WiFi password active on all your devices usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The router restart takes 2 to 5 minutes, logging in and changing the password takes 5 minutes, and reconnecting all your devices takes the rest of the time depending on how many you have.

What if my router does not have a reset button?

Some newer routers use a reset option in the settings menu instead of a physical button. Log into the router at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, look for "System Settings" or "Administration", and find a "Reset" or "Factory Reset" option. You can also contact your ISP or the router manufacturer for instructions specific to your model.