RouterEntry · Sources checked · How we write our guides
- Admin passwordOpens router settings
- Wi-Fi passwordConnects devices to your network
- After changing Wi-FiReconnect devices with the new password
Your admin password signs in to the router’s settings. Your Wi-Fi password connects devices to the wireless network. Changing one does not necessarily change the other.
1. Open your router or its official app
Connect to your home network. Open your router’s actual IP address in a browser and sign in with your admin details. Some mesh systems and provider gateways use an official app to manage Wi-Fi settings.
2. Find the wireless settings
Look for a section named Wi-Fi, Wireless, WLAN, or Wireless Security. Choose your main network. If your router gives the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz bands separate names and passwords, check which ones you want to update. A guest network has its own settings.
3. Choose a strong, unique password
Use a long passphrase that is not reused for other accounts. Avoid your address, phone number, or router brand. Follow your router’s accepted character and length rules and save the password in a password manager.
Use WPA3-Personal where supported, or WPA2-AES for compatible devices. If you are unsure which mode your devices support, check the router and device manuals before changing the security mode.
4. Save, then reconnect
Apply the changes. Devices using the old password will disconnect. Reconnect your phone and computer, then update TVs, speakers, cameras, printers, and other Wi-Fi devices. If a device keeps retrying the old password, forget that network and connect again.
If you can’t find the setting
The router model, firmware, and ISP can change the menu layout or limit local configuration. Start with the guide for TP-Link, NETGEAR, ASUS, or Linksys. Xfinity customers may need the Xfinity app or enabled Admin Tool access.
If you cannot sign in at all, work through login troubleshooting before resetting the device.