Where to find the settings on your router

Your WiFi name and password live in your router's admin panel, not on your computer or phone. The router is the box that broadcasts the signal — usually provided by your internet service provider or bought separately. To change either setting, you log into that box using a web browser or app.

Most routers have a sticker on the bottom or back with the default admin address (often something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), the default username, and the default password. Write down or photograph this information before you start, because you will need it to log in the first time.

If you cannot find the sticker, look up your router's model number online — the manufacturer's website will list the default login details. If you have already changed the admin password and forgotten it, you will need to reset the router to factory settings, which erases all your custom settings and returns it to defaults.

Key Takeaways

  • Log into your router's admin panel using the default address and password from the sticker on the back of the device.
  • The WiFi name (SSID) and password are separate settings, and you can change one without changing the other.
  • After you save changes, all devices will disconnect and must reconnect using the new name or password.
  • If you forget your new password, you can view it again in the router settings — you do not have to reset the whole device.
  • Different router brands use different menu layouts, but the WiFi settings are always in a section labeled "Wireless," "WiFi," or "Network."

Logging into your router for the first time

Open a web browser on any device connected to your WiFi. Type the admin address from the sticker into the address bar — for example, 192.168.1.1 — and press Enter. A login page will appear asking for a username and password.

Enter the default username and password from the sticker. Most routers use "admin" as the username and either "admin" or "password" as the password, but this varies by brand. If the defaults do not work, check the router's manual or the manufacturer's support page for your specific model.

After you log in successfully, you will see the router's main menu or dashboard. This is where all the settings live. Do not change anything yet — just locate the WiFi or Wireless settings section, which is usually in the left sidebar or a top menu.

Changing your WiFi network name (SSID)

Look for a section labeled "Wireless," "WiFi," "Network," or sometimes "SSID." Click into it. You will see a field that contains your current network name — this is what appears in the list of available networks on your phone or computer.

Clear the current name and type a new one. Use something you will recognize and remember. Avoid using personal information like your address or full name. The name can usually be up to 32 characters and can include letters, numbers, and some special characters, though spaces are fine.

After you type the new name, scroll down and look for a "Save," "Apply," or "OK" button. Click it. The router will restart or update its settings, which usually takes 30 seconds to a few minutes. During this time, your WiFi will briefly disappear from the list of available networks.

Changing your WiFi password

In the same Wireless or WiFi settings section, find the field labeled "Password," "Passphrase," "Security Key," or "Pre-Shared Key." This is the password people enter when they connect to your network.

Clear the current password and create a new one. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words, birthdays, or patterns like 123456. Write it down or store it somewhere safe before you save.

Make sure the security type is set to WPA2 or WPA3 — these are the current encryption standards. Older routers may offer WEP or WPA, which are less secure. If you see those options, choose WPA2 or WPA3 instead.

Click "Save" or "Apply." The router will update, and all connected devices will disconnect. You will need to reconnect each device using the new password.

What happens after you save changes

Once you save a new WiFi name or password, the router restarts its wireless broadcast. This usually takes one to three minutes. During this time, your network will not appear in the list of available networks, and any device currently connected will lose the connection.

After the router finishes restarting, the new network name will appear in the available networks list on your devices. To reconnect, select the network, enter the new password, and wait for the connection to establish. This process is the same on phones, computers, tablets, and smart home devices.

If you have many devices, reconnect them one at a time rather than all at once. This prevents the router from being overwhelmed and gives each device time to establish a stable connection.

If you forget your new password

You do not need to reset the entire router. Log back into the admin panel using the default address and your admin password (or the admin password you set, if you changed it). Navigate to the WiFi or Wireless settings section again, and you will see your current WiFi password displayed in the password field.

Write it down or take a screenshot. If you want to change it again, you can do so from this same screen without affecting any other router settings.

Resetting the router if you are locked out

If you forget your admin password and cannot log into the router's settings panel, you will need to reset the device to factory defaults. This erases all your custom settings, including the WiFi name and password you created, and returns everything to the manufacturer's defaults.

Most routers have a small reset button on the back or bottom. Use a paperclip or pen to press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights will flash, and the router will restart. This process takes a few minutes.

After the reset is complete, log in using the default credentials from the sticker, and set up your WiFi name and password again from scratch. Some routers also offer a factory reset option in the admin panel settings menu if you can still log in.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your phone or computer connects to the WiFi that the router broadcasts, but it cannot change the router's settings. You must log into the router's admin panel using a web browser or the router's app (if the manufacturer provides one). The app approach is sometimes easier because it walks you through the steps.

Will changing my WiFi password disconnect my smart home devices?

Yes. Any device currently connected to your WiFi will disconnect when you change the password. You will need to reconnect each one by selecting the network and entering the new password. For devices like smart speakers or security cameras, check the manufacturer's instructions for how to reconnect them, as some have a specific pairing process.

What is the difference between the WiFi password and the admin password?

The WiFi password is what guests and your devices use to connect to the internet. The admin password is what you use to log into the router's settings panel to make changes. They are separate. You can change one without changing the other, though it is a good idea to change both if someone else knows them.

Does changing my WiFi name affect my internet speed?

No. The network name is just a label. Changing it does not affect how fast your internet runs. Your speed depends on your service plan, the router's hardware, and how far devices are from the router.

Why does my router keep asking me to log in even though I entered the password correctly?

This usually means you typed the password incorrectly. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, so uppercase and lowercase letters matter. Check that Caps Lock is off and try again. If you are still having trouble, log into the router's admin panel and view the password to confirm what it should be.