Where to find your modem's password settings

Your modem has two passwords: one for the device itself (the admin password) and one for your Wi-Fi network. Most people need to change the Wi-Fi password, which is simpler. To change either one, you log into your modem's control panel using a web browser on any device connected to your network.

Open a browser and type your modem's IP address into the address bar. The most common address is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1. Your modem's manual or the sticker on the back of the device will list the exact address. When you reach the login page, enter your current admin username and password — often both are "admin" if you have never changed them.

Once you are logged in, look for a section called "Wireless," "Wi-Fi," "Network," or "Settings." The exact name depends on your modem's manufacturer. From there, you can change your Wi-Fi password (also called the network key or passphrase) or your admin password.

Key Takeaways

  • Access your modem by typing its IP address (usually 192.168.0.1) into a web browser on a connected device.
  • Log in with your admin username and password, which are often both "admin" unless you have changed them before.
  • Change your Wi-Fi password in the Wireless or Network section; change your admin password in Settings or Administration.
  • Save or explore your changes before closing the page, or the new password will not take effect.
  • After changing your Wi-Fi password, you will need to reconnect all your devices using the new password.

Changing your Wi-Fi password step by step

Once you are in the modem control panel, find the Wireless or Wi-Fi section. You will see a field labeled "Passphrase," "Network Key," "Password," or "Pre-Shared Key." This is your Wi-Fi password — the one you type when connecting a phone or laptop to your network.

Clear the existing password and type your new one. Most modems require at least 8 characters; many recommend mixing uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols for security. Write down your new password before you save it — you will need it to reconnect your devices.

Look for a button labeled "Save," "explore," "OK," or "Submit." Click it. The modem may restart briefly, which is normal. Wait a minute or two for it to come back online. Your Wi-Fi network will now require the new password.

Changing your admin password

Your admin password is different from your Wi-Fi password. It controls who can log into the modem's control panel and change its settings. If you want to change it, look for a section called "Administration," "System," "Advanced," or "Security."

You will see fields for "Admin Username" and "Admin Password" or "Current Password" and "New Password." Enter your current admin password, then type your new one twice to confirm it. Save the change. The next time you log into the modem, you will use the new password.

If you forget your admin password, you can reset the modem to factory settings by holding down a small reset button on the back for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases all your settings, including your Wi-Fi password, so only do this if you are certain you need to. Your internet service provider can also help you reset it.

What to do if you cannot log in

If you cannot reach the modem's control panel, check that you typed the IP address correctly. Try 192.168.1.1 if 192.168.0.1 does not work. You can also find the correct address by looking at the back or bottom of the modem — it is usually printed there.

If the login page appears but your username and password do not work, try "admin" and "admin" again, or "admin" and "password." If the modem is brand new or was recently reset, the default credentials are often printed on the device itself or in the manual that came with it.

If you are still locked out, restart the modem by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for all the lights to stabilize before trying again. If that does not work, contact your internet service provider — they can reset the modem remotely or send a technician.

Reconnecting your devices after changing Wi-Fi password

Once your new Wi-Fi password is active, your phone, laptop, tablet, and other devices will no longer connect automatically. You will need to "forget" the old network and reconnect with the new password.

On most devices, go to Wi-Fi settings, find your network name, and select "Forget" or "Remove." Then search for the network again, select it, and enter your new password. Repeat this for each device on your network. Smart home devices like thermostats or security cameras may take longer to reconnect — check their manuals if they do not find the network right away.

Security tips for your modem password

Your Wi-Fi password should be long and random enough that neighbors or passersby cannot guess it. A strong password is at least 12 characters and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using your name, address, or birthdate.

Change your admin password from the default as soon as you set up the modem. An admin password that is still "admin" leaves your modem vulnerable to someone on your network who wants to change your settings or lock you out. Keep your admin password separate from your Wi-Fi password and do not share it with guests.

If you suspect someone has accessed your modem without permission, change both passwords when ready. You can also check the modem's control panel for a list of connected devices — if you see devices you do not recognize, they may be unauthorized users on your network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my Wi-Fi password disconnect me from the internet?

Not permanently. Your internet connection itself stays active. However, your devices will lose Wi-Fi connection until you reconnect them with the new password. Wired devices connected by ethernet cable will not be affected at all.

What if I forget my new password right after changing it?

Log back into the modem control panel using your admin password and look at the Wi-Fi password field — it will show your current password (usually hidden as dots, but sometimes visible). Write it down and save it somewhere safe before you log out.

Can I change my modem password from my phone?

Yes, as long as your phone is connected to your Wi-Fi network. Open a browser, type your modem's IP address, and log in the same way you would on a computer. The process is identical.

Do I need to restart my modem after changing the password?

Most modems restart automatically when you save a new password. If yours does not, you can restart it manually by unplugging it for 30 seconds. The new password will not work until the modem has restarted.

What is the difference between my modem password and my router password?

If your modem and router are separate devices, they each have their own Wi-Fi password and admin password. If you have a combined modem-router unit, there is only one Wi-Fi network and one admin panel to manage. Check the labels on your devices to see whether they are separate or combined.