How to change your router's Wi-Fi password, step by step

By The SpeedFibre team, updated . 3 min read.

How to change your router's Wi-Fi password, step by step
In short Log in to the router interface (often at an address such as 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, printed on the label) or the provider's app, open the Wi-Fi / WLAN section, change the key and save. Choose WPA2 or WPA3.
Contents
  1. Before you start
  2. Method 1: the router interface
  3. Method 2: the provider's app
  4. Optimise while you are there

The password printed under the router is often known to neighbours, guests or previous tenants. Changing it takes five minutes and improves security, and sometimes speed, by cutting off unwanted devices.

Before you start

  • Connect to the router by cable if possible: over Wi-Fi you will be disconnected when the change applies.
  • Find the label under the router: interface address, admin username and password.
  • Prepare a new password of at least 12 characters, easy to type on a TV.

Method 1: the router interface

  1. Open a browser and type the address printed on the label (often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  2. Log in with the admin credentials from the label.
  3. Open the Wi-Fi, WLAN or Wireless section.
  4. Change the security key (and the network name if you wish) for each band: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.
  5. Choose WPA2-PSK or WPA3 encryption if all your devices support it.
  6. Save, then reconnect your devices with the new password.

Menus vary by router model. If you cannot find it, look up the model name (on the label) on the provider's website.

Method 2: the provider's app

Providers offer customer apps that often let you manage the router's Wi-Fi. Open the section for your internet line, then the Wi-Fi settings. If the option is missing, use the router interface.

Optimise while you are there

  • Also change the router's admin password.
  • Disable WPS if you do not use it.
  • Choose the right band: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz.
  • Check the list of connected devices: an unknown one can slow your connection.

After the change, run a speed test: if the result improves, devices were using your bandwidth. Go further: secure your Wi-Fi.

#WiFi#WiFiDiagnosis

Sources and further reading

Frequently asked questions

I forgot the router's admin password, what can I do?

Try the one on the label. If it was changed and forgotten, a reset (holding the reset button for a few seconds) restores factory settings; you will then need to set the router up again. Contact your provider if unsure.

Does changing the Wi-Fi password cut the internet?

Only while you reconnect your devices with the new key. The router's internet connection is not interrupted.

Should I change the Wi-Fi name?

Not required, but a neutral name (without your name or flat number) is more discreet.

The SpeedFibre team Guides written and reviewed by a telecom engineer specialised in fibre optics (FTTH), with more than 8 years of hands-on network maintenance and measurement. Editorial policy.

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