The basic steps work the same way on most routers

To change your WiFi password, you log into your router's settings page using a web browser or app, find the wireless security section, enter a new password, and save the changes. The exact steps depend on your router model and who makes it — a Netgear router looks different from a TP-Link or Linksys — but the process follows the same pattern on all of them.

You will need to know your router's IP address (usually printed on the router itself or in your manual) and your current admin password to log in. If you have never changed the admin password, it is often the default password printed on a sticker on the back of the router.

The whole process takes about five minutes once you are logged in. Your devices will disconnect from WiFi when you change the password, and you will need to reconnect them using the new password.

Key Takeaways

  • Log into your router by typing its IP address into a web browser — usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — and enter your admin username and password.
  • Find the wireless settings or WiFi security section, which is often labeled "Wireless", "WiFi", or "Security" depending on your router brand.
  • Change the password in the field labeled "Passphrase", "Pre-Shared Key", or "WiFi Password" and make sure the security type is set to WPA2 or WPA3, not WEP or Open.
  • Save or apply your changes, then reconnect your devices using the new password within a few minutes.
  • If you cannot log in, reset your router to factory defaults using the reset button, which will erase all your settings and restore the default password.

Finding your router's login page

Open a web browser on a computer or phone connected to your WiFi. Type your router's IP address into the address bar. The most common addresses are 192.168.1.1 and 192.168.0.1. If neither of those works, check the back or bottom of your router for a sticker that lists the IP address, or check your router's manual.

A login page will appear asking for a username and password. The default username is often "admin" and the default password is printed on a sticker on your router. If you have changed the admin password before and do not remember it, you will need to reset the router to factory defaults using the small reset button on the back (hold it for 10 to 15 seconds with the router powered on).

Some newer routers have a mobile app instead of a web login. Check the box your router came in or search for your router model plus "app" to learn about yours has one. The app usually makes the process simpler because it walks you through each step.

Locating the wireless password settings

Once you are logged in, look for a menu item labeled "Wireless", "WiFi", "Wireless Settings", or "Security". Different manufacturers use different names. Netgear often calls it "Wireless Settings", TP-Link calls it "Wireless", and some routers put it under "Advanced" or "Network Settings".

Click on that menu item. You should see a section for your WiFi network name (called the SSID) and below it a field for the password or passphrase. The password field might be labeled "Passphrase", "Pre-Shared Key", "WiFi Password", or "Network Key" depending on your router.

Before you change the password, check that the security type is set to WPA2 or WPA3. These are the current secure standards. If it is set to WEP or "Open", change it to WPA2 first, then set your new password. WEP is outdated and not secure.

Creating a strong new password and saving changes

Clear the current password field and type in a new password. A strong WiFi password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. For example: BlueSky#2024Home or Coffee$Morning99. Avoid using your name, address, or obvious words that someone could guess.

After you enter the new password, look for a button labeled "Save", "Apply", "OK", or "Submit". Click it. Your router will process the change, which usually takes 30 seconds to a few minutes. During this time, all devices connected to your WiFi will disconnect.

Once the router has finished applying the changes, your old password will no longer work. You will need to reconnect each device — phones, laptops, tablets, smart speakers, printers, and anything else using WiFi — by selecting your network name and entering the new password.

Reconnecting your devices after the change

On each device, go to the WiFi settings and select your network name from the list of available networks. When prompted for the password, type the new password exactly as you entered it in the router settings. Passwords are case-sensitive, so BlueSky#2024Home is different from bluesky#2024home.

If a device says "Incorrect Password" or "Cannot Connect", double-check that you typed the password correctly. A common mistake is forgetting whether a letter should be uppercase or lowercase. If you are unsure, log back into the router and check the password field to confirm what you entered.

Some older devices like printers or smart home gadgets may take longer to reconnect or may need to be restarted. If a device will not reconnect after a few minutes, restart it by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

What to do if you cannot log into your router

If you do not remember your admin password and cannot log in, you will need to reset your router to factory defaults. Locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of your router. It is usually recessed so you cannot press it by accident. Use a paperclip or the tip of a pen to press and hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on.

The router will restart and return to its factory settings. This erases all your custom settings, including your WiFi password, network name, and any port forwarding rules you may have set up. After the reset, you can log in using the default username and password printed on the sticker on your router.

If you have other devices or services that depend on your router settings — such as port forwarding for gaming, UPnP settings, or a custom network name — write down those details before you reset. After you log in with the default password, you can change the WiFi password and then reconfigure any other settings you need.

Changing the password on mesh WiFi systems

If you have a mesh WiFi system like Eero, Netgear Orbi, or TP-Link Deco, the process is slightly different because you manage it through a mobile app rather than a web browser. Open the app, tap the settings icon, and look for "WiFi Settings" or "Network Settings".

Find the option to change your WiFi password or passphrase. Enter your new password and save the changes. The app will push the update to all nodes in your mesh system, and your devices will disconnect and reconnect just as they would with a traditional router.

If you do not have the app installed, you can usually still log into the main router using a web browser at its IP address, just as you would with a standard router. Check your system's manual or the manufacturer's website to find the IP address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my WiFi password disconnect all my devices?

Yes. All devices will disconnect when the change takes effect, usually within a few minutes. You will need to reconnect each one by selecting your network and entering the new password. This is normal and expected.

What if I forget the new password I just set?

Log back into your router using the same method (IP address in a web browser) and check the wireless settings. The password will be displayed there, though it may be hidden behind dots or asterisks. If you cannot log in, reset the router to factory defaults and start over.

Can I change my WiFi password from my phone?

Yes, if your router has a mobile app. Open the app, go to WiFi settings, and change the password there. If your router does not have an app, you can still use a web browser on your phone — type the router's IP address into the address bar just as you would on a computer.

Should I use WPA2 or WPA3 for security?

WPA3 is newer and more secure, so use it if your router supports it. If your router only offers WPA2, that is still secure and fine to use. Avoid WEP — it is outdated and can be broken easily.

How often should I change my WiFi password?

There is no set rule. Change it if you think someone unauthorized has access, if you have guests who no longer need access, or if you want to rotate it for security. Changing it once a year is reasonable, but more frequent changes are not necessary for home networks.