Where to change your password depends on your router model

You change your wireless network password through your router's settings page, not through your computer or phone. Every router has a web address you type into a browser — usually something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — that opens a login screen. Once you log in with your router's admin password, you'll find the wireless settings and can change the network password from there.

The exact steps vary slightly depending on whether you have a standalone router, a modem-router combo unit, or a mesh system. Your router's model number is printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device. If you've lost the manual, searching "[your model number] change wifi password" will show you the specific steps for your equipment.

Most routers let you change the password in under five minutes once you're logged in. The change takes effect immediately, and all your devices will disconnect and need the new password to reconnect.

Key Takeaways

  • You access your router's settings by typing its IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) into a web browser on a device connected to your network.
  • You'll need your router's admin password to log in — this is different from your wireless network password and is often printed on the router itself.
  • The wireless password setting is typically labeled "WiFi Password," "Pre-Shared Key," or "Passphrase" and is usually in a Wireless or Security section.
  • After you change the password, all connected devices will disconnect and will need the new password to reconnect.
  • If you've forgotten your router's admin password, you can reset the router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds, which erases all your settings.

Finding your router's login address and admin password

The first step is opening your router's settings page in a web browser. On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig, then look for the line labeled "Default Gateway" — that's your router's address. On Mac, open Terminal and type netstat -nr | grep default to find the same information. On any device, you can also try typing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into your browser's address bar, as these are the most common default addresses.

When you reach the login page, you'll need your router's admin password. This is printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of your router — look for a line labeled "Admin Password," "Default Password," or sometimes just "Password." It's not your wireless network password; it's the password to access the router's settings. If the sticker is worn off or missing, you'll need to reset the router to factory settings, which erases all your custom settings and returns it to the default password printed in the manual.

Locating the wireless password setting in your router

Once you're logged into your router, look for a menu section labeled "Wireless," "WiFi," "Network," or "Security." The exact layout depends on your router's brand and model. Some routers have a simple dashboard with a few large buttons; others have nested menus with many options. If you're unsure where to look, search your router's model number plus "change wifi password" to see screenshots of the exact menu.

Inside the wireless settings, find the field labeled "Password," "Pre-Shared Key," "Passphrase," or "WiFi Password." This is the password your devices use to connect to your network — not the admin password you just used to log in. Some routers also show the network name (SSID) on the same page. Type your new password into this field. Most routers require passwords to be at least 8 characters long and accept letters, numbers, and special characters.

What happens after you save the new password

After you click Save or Apply, your router will update its settings. This usually takes 10 to 30 seconds. During this time, all devices currently connected to your network will disconnect automatically — your phone, laptop, smart TV, and any other connected devices will lose internet access.

Once the router finishes updating, you'll need to reconnect each device using the new password. On your phone or laptop, open the WiFi settings, select your network name, and enter the new password. Devices will remember the new password after the first connection, so you won't need to type it again unless you change it again later. Smart home devices and older devices like printers may take longer to reconnect or may need to be manually reconnected through their own settings.

Changing the password on a mesh WiFi system

Mesh systems like Eero, Netgear Orbi, or Google Nest WiFi work differently from traditional routers. Instead of logging into a web address, you change the password through a mobile app. Open the app for your mesh system, look for a Settings or WiFi Settings section, and find the option to change your network password. The process is usually simpler than a traditional router because the app guides you through each step.

If your mesh system also has a web login (some do), you can use that instead by typing the IP address into a browser, just like a traditional router. Check your system's manual or the manufacturer's website to see which method is available for your model.

What to do if you've forgotten your admin password

If you can't remember the admin password printed on your router, you'll need to reset the router to factory settings. Locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of your router — it's usually recessed so you can't press it by accident. Using a paperclip or the tip of a pen, hold down the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights on the router will blink, indicating the reset is happening.

After the reset completes, the router will return to its default settings, including the default admin password printed on the sticker. You'll need to set up your network again from scratch, including creating a new wireless password and reconnecting all your devices. This is why it's helpful to write down your admin password somewhere safe after you first set up your router, or to change it to something you'll remember.

Choosing a strong wireless password

A strong wireless password makes it harder for someone nearby to guess or crack your network. Use at least 12 characters and mix uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters like ! or #. Avoid using words from a dictionary, your name, your address, or your birthday — these are easy to guess. A random combination like "Tr0pic@lMango#42" is much stronger than "password123" or "MyHouse2024."

Write your new password down and store it somewhere safe, like a password manager or a notebook in a drawer. You'll need it to reconnect devices if you restart your router or if a guest asks for the network password. If you ever suspect someone has your password, you can change it again using the same steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my password disconnect my devices?

Yes. All devices connected to your network will disconnect when you save the new password. You'll need to reconnect each one by selecting your network name and entering the new password. Devices will remember the password after the first connection.

What's the difference between my admin password and my WiFi password?

Your admin password lets you access your router's settings page. Your WiFi password is what your devices use to connect to your network. They're separate passwords, and you only need the admin password once when you're changing settings.

Can I change my password from my phone or computer instead of the router?

No. You must log into your router's settings page through a web browser or app to change the wireless password. You can't change it through your phone's WiFi settings or your computer's network settings.

How often should I change my wireless password?

There's no set schedule. Change it if you suspect someone has it, if a guest moves out, or if you want to disconnect a device that's using the old password. Many people change it once or twice a year as a precaution, but it's not required.

What if I can't find the reset button on my router?

Check your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for the exact location. Some routers have the reset button on the side or under a removable panel. If you still can't find it, contact your internet service provider — they may be able to reset it remotely or send you a replacement.