How to Change Your WiFi Network Name in 5 Steps

You change your WiFi name by logging into your router's settings page, finding the wireless or SSID section, and typing a new name

Your WiFi name — also called the SSID (Service Set Identifier) — is what appears when you look for networks on your phone or computer. Changing it takes about five minutes and requires you to access your router's admin panel using a web browser or app. You do not need to call your internet provider or restart your internet service.

The exact steps depend on your router model, but the process is similar across most brands. You will need your router's admin password, which is different from your WiFi password. If you have never changed it, the default password is usually printed on a sticker on the router itself or in the manual that came with it.

Key Takeaways

Find your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and type it into a web browser to reach the admin panel.
Log in using your router's admin username and password, which may be the default credentials if you have never changed them.
Look for a wireless settings, WiFi settings, or SSID section and change the network name to whatever you want.
Save your changes — your devices will disconnect briefly, then the new network name will appear in your available networks list.
Your WiFi password does not change unless you also edit the security settings, so your devices will reconnect automatically.

Finding your router's admin page

Open a web browser on any device connected to your WiFi 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. If neither works, you can find the correct address by checking the back or bottom of your router — it is usually printed there next to "Gateway" or "Admin URL".

A login page will appear. Enter your router's admin username and password. The default username is often admin and the default password is often admin, password, or 12345, but this varies by manufacturer. Check the sticker on your router or your router's manual. If you changed these credentials before and cannot remember them, you will need to reset the router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds — this erases all your custom settings.

Locating the wireless settings section

Once you are logged in, look for a menu option labeled Wireless, WiFi, Wireless Settings, or SSID. Different router brands place this in different locations. Some routers have a simple dashboard with large buttons; others have a sidebar menu. If you cannot find it immediately, look for a settings or advanced settings section.

You may see separate sections for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks if your router broadcasts both bands. Both have their own SSID field. You can give them the same name or different names — most people use the same name so devices connect to whichever band is stronger. Change one or both, depending on your preference.

Changing your network name

Find the field labeled SSID, Network Name, or Wireless Network Name. Clear the current name and type a new one. You can use letters, numbers, spaces, and most special characters, though some routers have limits. Keep it short and memorable — something you can easily type on a phone or laptop.

Avoid using your full name, address, or other personal information in your network name, since anyone nearby can see it. The network name itself is not a security feature; your WiFi password is what protects your network. Once you have entered the new name, look for a Save, Apply, or OK button and click it.

What happens after you save

Your router will apply the change, and all connected devices will disconnect for a few seconds. Your old network name will disappear from the available networks list, and the new name will appear. Devices that were connected will try to reconnect automatically if they still have your WiFi password saved.

If a device does not reconnect automatically, open its WiFi settings, forget the old network name, and select the new one from the available networks list. Enter your WiFi password when prompted. The password does not change unless you also edited the security settings in the wireless menu.

Changing your WiFi password at the same time

While you are in the wireless settings, you can also change your WiFi password if you want to. Look for a field labeled Password, Passphrase, Pre-Shared Key, or PSK. Make sure the security type is set to WPA2 or WPA3 — these are the current secure standards. Older routers may default to WEP or WPA, which are weaker.

Create a password that is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Write it down somewhere safe before you save, since you will need to enter it on every device that connects to your network. After you save, all your devices will disconnect and ask for the new password when they reconnect.

Troubleshooting if something goes wrong

If you cannot reach the admin page, make sure you are connected to the WiFi network and that you typed the IP address correctly. Try both 192.168.1.1 and 192.168.0.1. If neither works, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

If you are locked out because you forgot the admin password, you will need to reset the router. Hold the small reset button on the back or bottom of the router for 10 to 15 seconds until the lights blink or change color. This returns the router to factory settings, so you will lose any custom settings you made. After the reset, log in with the default credentials printed on the router.

If your devices still cannot find the new network name after you save, try restarting the router again. Power it off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. If the problem persists, check that you actually clicked the Save or Apply button — some routers require you to confirm the change on a second screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my WiFi name disconnect my devices?

Yes, but only briefly. All connected devices will disconnect when you save the change, then they will automatically reconnect if they have your WiFi password saved. You do not need to do anything — just wait a few seconds and they will be back online.

Can I change my WiFi name without changing my password?

Yes. Your network name and password are separate settings. You can change one without touching the other. If you only change the name, your devices will reconnect automatically because the password has not changed.

What if I forgot my WiFi password?

You can see your current WiFi password in the wireless settings page of your router's admin panel. Look for a field labeled Password or Passphrase — it may be hidden behind a "show password" checkbox. Write it down, then you can enter it on any device that needs to connect.

Does changing my network name affect my internet speed?

No. The network name is just a label. Your internet speed depends on your router's hardware, your internet plan, and how far away your devices are from the router. Changing the name has no effect on speed.

Can I have two different WiFi names on the same router?

Yes, if your router supports dual-band WiFi. You can give your 2.4 GHz network one name and your 5 GHz network a different name. This lets you manually choose which band a device connects to. Most people give both bands the same name so devices pick the strongest one automatically.

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.