Check your router's sticker first

The fastest way to recover your WiFi password is to look at the physical router itself. Most routers have a sticker on the bottom or back that lists the default network name (SSID) and password. The password is usually labeled "WiFi Password," "Network Key," or "Pre-Shared Key." Write down exactly what you see — these passwords are case-sensitive, meaning capital and lowercase letters matter.

If the sticker password doesn't work, someone may have changed it after setup. In that case, move to the next step. But if you're setting up a new device or just reconnecting an old one, the sticker password is usually your answer.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the sticker on your router's bottom or back for the default password before trying anything else.
  • You can reset your router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds, which erases the changed password and returns it to the sticker default.
  • Resetting the router will disconnect all devices currently using that WiFi, so warn anyone else in your home first.
  • If you changed the password yourself, you may have written it down in your phone's notes, email, or password manager — check those before resetting.
  • After resetting, you can create a new password by logging into the router's admin page at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 using the default username and password.

Reset the router to factory settings

If the sticker password doesn't work and you can't find where you wrote down the new one, you can reset the entire router. This erases all your custom settings — including the password you changed — and returns it to the factory defaults on the sticker. Before you do this, tell anyone else in your home that WiFi will go down for a few minutes.

Locate the small reset button on your router. It's usually recessed into the case so you can't press it by accident. Use a straightened paperclip or a ballpoint pen to press and hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights on the front will blink or go dark. Release the button and wait about two minutes for the router to restart. Once the lights stabilize, your WiFi network name and password are back to what's printed on the sticker.

This reset does not delete your internet connection itself — your modem and service are unaffected. Only the WiFi settings on the router change.

Log into the router to set a new password

Once you've reset the router or confirmed the sticker password works, you can create a new custom password if you want one. Open a web browser on any device connected to the WiFi and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. One of these will take you to the router's login page.

Enter the default username and password from the sticker. Common defaults are "admin" for both username and password, but check your sticker — different brands use different defaults. Once you're logged in, look for a section called "WiFi Settings," "Wireless," or "Network." Find the field labeled "Password," "Pre-Shared Key," or "Network Key" and type in a new password you'll remember. Make it at least 12 characters long and mix in uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols if the router allows it. Save the changes and wait for the router to restart.

Write down your new password when ready and store it somewhere you'll find it — a notes app, a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password, or even a physical notebook in a drawer. This step takes two minutes and saves you from being locked out again.

Check your phone's saved passwords

If you've connected to this WiFi network before on your phone or computer, the device may have saved the password. On an iPhone, go to Settings > WiFi, tap the network name, then tap "Show Password" — you'll need to use Face ID or your passcode. On Android, go to Settings > WiFi, long-press the network name, tap "Manage," then look for a password field or a "Show Password" option. The exact steps vary by phone model and Android version, but the password is stored somewhere in your WiFi settings.

On a Windows computer, right-click the WiFi icon in the system tray, select "Open Network and Internet Settings," then click "WiFi" and "Manage Known Networks." Find your network, click it, then click "Properties" and scroll down to "Security." Check the box next to "Show" to reveal the password. On a Mac, open System Preferences > Network > WiFi, click "Advanced," find your network in the list, and click "Edit." The password appears in the password field.

Use a guest network if you're locked out

If you can't remember the password and don't have another device that's already connected, check whether your router has a guest network enabled. Guest networks are separate from your main WiFi and often have a simpler default password. Look for a network name that includes "Guest" in the list of available networks. If you can connect to it, you'll have internet access while you work on recovering the main network password.

Once you're on the guest network, you can still access the router's admin page at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 using the default credentials from the sticker. This lets you reset the main network password without having to physically reset the router.

Contact your internet provider if the router won't reset

In rare cases, a router won't respond to the reset button or you can't access the admin page even with the default password. This sometimes happens if the router is locked by your internet provider or if there's a hardware problem. Call your provider's support number — it's on your bill or on their website. Tell them you've forgotten your WiFi password and the reset button didn't work. They can often reset the router remotely or send you a replacement.

Have your account number ready when you call. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you may lose internet briefly while the reset happens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting the router delete my internet service?

No. Resetting the router only changes the WiFi settings — your internet connection from the modem stays active. You'll lose WiFi for a few minutes while the router restarts, but your service itself is not affected.

What if I don't know the default username and password for the admin page?

Check the sticker on your router. It lists both the WiFi password and the admin credentials. If the sticker is missing or worn, search online for "[your router brand and model] default username password" — most manufacturers publish these. If that doesn't work, you'll need to reset the router with the reset button.

Can I recover a password without resetting the router?

Only if another device in your home is already connected to that WiFi. Check your phone, tablet, or computer for saved passwords in their settings. If no device is connected, you'll need to reset the router or contact your internet provider.

How do I make sure I don't forget my password again?

Write it down in a password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or even the Notes app on your phone. Password managers are encrypted and much safer than writing it on paper. You can also store it in a find note in your email account. The key is keeping it somewhere you'll actually look when you need it.

What if the reset button doesn't work?

Some routers have a reset button that requires a specific sequence or a very long press. Check your router's manual online by searching "[brand and model] reset instructions." If the button truly doesn't work, contact your internet provider — they can reset it remotely or replace the router if it's defective.