How to Reset a Router Password: Admin Login and Wi-Fi Password Steps

Resetting a router password usually means one of two things: the admin login for the settings page, or the Wi-Fi password. Here's how to reset a router password both ways, starting with the admin login.

Admin Password vs. Wi-Fi Password

The admin password unlocks the settings page and controls the Wi-Fi password itself. The Wi-Fi password only lets devices connect — losing it doesn't disconnect devices already online. In practice, most lockouts involve the admin side.

How to Reset a Router Password (Admin Login)

Open the settings page first, usually via a local IP address like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — the exact one depends on the brand. Some newer routers use a named login address instead. Three methods commonly apply:

• Built-in recovery: Some routers trigger a reset screen after repeated failed logins, asking for a serial number before setting a new password. Commonly reported only on newer or higher-end models.
• Default credentials: If the password was never changed, the login printed on the router's label — often "admin" for both fields — usually still works, though this varies by brand.

How to Reset a Router Password via Factory Reset

If neither works, hold the recessed reset button with a paperclip. In practice, hold times vary by model, typically 10–30 seconds. This restores defaults but erases more than the password:

Setup needs repeating afterward, since the router returns to its out-of-box state.

How to Change Your Wi-Fi Password

Once logged in, open Wireless settings and find the field labeled "Password" or "Passphrase." Use something unrelated to personal details. WPA2 or WPA3 is generally recommended over WEP, which is widely considered easy to break, according to Wikipedia. Saving disconnects current devices, which reconnect using the new password.

Common Default Router IP Addresses

These are the addresses most commonly reported across router brands, not universal defaults.

Conclusion

In practice, resetting a router password comes down to three options: built-in recovery, default credentials, or a factory reset, tried in that order. Changing the Wi-Fi password is a separate step done afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the default password for most routers?

"admin" is common for both username and password on many models, but not universal. Check the label on the router rather than assuming.

How do I find my router's IP address?

Common defaults include 192.168.1.1 and 192.168.0.1, though some brands use a named login URL instead.

Does a factory reset delete my Wi-Fi password too?

Yes. A factory reset erases the admin login, Wi-Fi name, Wi-Fi password, and custom settings — everything returns to defaults.

What if I don't know my router's admin username?

Try the default on the router's label first. If that fails, a factory reset restores the original defaults.

Is it safe to leave a router on default login credentials?

Generally not recommended, since default credentials are publicly documented by manufacturers, as reported by Forbes.