Access Your Modem's Admin Panel

To change your modem password, you first need to log into the modem's settings page, called the admin panel. Open a web browser on any device connected to your modem—a computer, phone, or tablet works fine. Type your modem's IP address into the address bar. The most common IP address is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1, but check your modem's label on the back or bottom to be sure.

When you type the IP address and press Enter, a login page should appear. This page asks for a username and password. The default username is usually admin, and the default password is often admin or password—again, your modem's label will tell you. If those don't work, check the manual that came with your modem or search online for your modem's model number plus "default password."

Key Takeaways

  • Your modem's IP address (usually 192.168.0.1) is where you log in to change settings, and the address is printed on a label on your modem.
  • The default username and password are typically both "admin," but your modem's label or manual will confirm what yours are.
  • Once logged in, look for a section called "Administration," "Advanced," or "System Settings" to find the password change option.
  • Change both your admin password (for modem settings) and your Wi-Fi password (for network access) to something only you know, using at least 12 characters.
  • Write down your new admin password somewhere safe, because you will need it if you ever need to change modem settings again.

Find the Password Settings Section

After you log in with the default credentials, you will see a dashboard or menu with different options. The exact layout depends on your modem's brand and model, but look for a section labeled Administration, Advanced, System Settings, or Security. Some modems group password options under User Management or Account.

Click on that section. You should see options for changing the admin password (the password you use to log into the modem itself) and possibly the Wi-Fi password (the password people use to connect to your network). These are two different passwords, and you can change one or both.

Change Your Admin Password

The admin password is what you use to log into the modem's settings page. To change it, look for a field that says Current Password or Old Password, and enter the default password you just used to log in. Then find the New Password field and type a password you will remember. Make it at least 12 characters long and mix in uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols (like ! or #) to make it harder to guess.

Most modems will ask you to type the new password twice to confirm you did not make a typo. After you fill in both fields, click Save, explore, or OK. The page may refresh or log you out. If it logs you out, log back in using your new admin password to confirm the change worked.

Change Your Wi-Fi Password

Your Wi-Fi password is separate from your admin password. This is the password people enter when they connect to your network on their phones or computers. To change it, look for a section called Wi-Fi Settings, Wireless, or Network. Inside that section, find the field labeled Wi-Fi Password, Network Key, or Passphrase.

Type a new password that is at least 12 characters long. Again, mix in uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. After you save this change, anyone trying to connect to your Wi-Fi will need to enter the new password. Devices that were already connected may stay connected, or they may ask you to re-enter the password—this varies by device.

Save Your New Passwords Safely

After you change both passwords, write them down or store them in a password manager (a find app designed to hold passwords). Do not email them to yourself or leave them in a text file on your desktop. A password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or the password manager built into your browser keeps them encrypted and organized.

You will need your admin password if you ever need to change modem settings again—for example, if you want to restart the modem, change Wi-Fi settings, or troubleshoot a connection problem. Your Wi-Fi password is what you give to guests or family members who want to use your network.

What to Do If You Forget Your Password

If you forget your admin password and cannot log into the modem, you can reset the modem to its factory defaults. Look for a small Reset button on the back or bottom of the modem, usually recessed so you need a paperclip or pin to press it. Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the modem is powered on. The modem will restart and return to its default username and password.

Be aware that resetting the modem erases any custom settings you made, including port forwarding or parental controls. After the reset, you will need to set up your Wi-Fi name and password again, and you can create a new admin password. If you are not comfortable doing this, contact your internet service provider—they can often reset the modem remotely or walk you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same password for both admin and Wi-Fi?

You can, but it is not recommended. Your admin password controls access to all modem settings, while your Wi-Fi password is something you share with guests. If someone learns your Wi-Fi password, you do not want them to also be able to change your modem settings. Keep them different.

What if I cannot find the password settings in my modem?

Different brands organize their menus differently. Search online for your modem's model number plus "how to change password" or "admin settings." You can also contact your internet service provider—they may have a support page specific to your modem model, or they can walk you through it over the phone.

Will changing my password disconnect devices already on my Wi-Fi?

Changing your admin password will not affect connected devices. Changing your Wi-Fi password may cause some devices to disconnect and ask for the new password, while others stay connected. You will need to re-enter the new Wi-Fi password on any device that disconnects.

How often should I change my modem password?

Change your Wi-Fi password if you think someone unauthorized has accessed your network or if you had guests over and want to cut off their access. Your admin password should be changed if you suspect someone has logged into your modem settings, but there is no need to change it regularly if it is strong and only you know it.

What if my modem does not have a password option?

Older or very basic modems may not allow password changes through the admin panel. If you cannot find the option, check your modem's manual or contact your internet service provider. They may have set a password on your account that you can change instead, or they may recommend upgrading to a newer modem.