If you had to, would you know how to change your Wi-Fi password right now, without needing any help or resources? Only 28% of people changed their Wi-Fi password in 2024: and this number is down from 35% in 2022. Whether this represents a lack of know-how or underestimating the importance of protecting your home network, it means a staggering percentage of people are at risk of their privacy being compromised.
In this blog we’ll explain how to change your Wi-Fi password through both your router and mobile devices. It’s simple to do, and getting the hang of this practice is an easy way to boost the security of your home network.
How to Change the Wi-Fi Password on Your Router
Changing your Wi-Fi password doesn’t need to be done according to a strict schedule, but it’s a good practice to do it every once in a while, especially if anything happens that makes you think your network might be compromised.
There are two ways to change your Wi-Fi password on your router. The first method is straightforward:
- Connect to the Wi-Fi network for which you want to change the password
- Find your router’s IP address, and log into your router through your web browser (default login credentials may be assigned to your router model and are often listed on a label on the device)
- Look for an option along the lines of Wi-Fi Settings or Security, it should display an option to change your password
- Change your password to something secure and save any changes: then you’ll be temporarily logged out of your Wi-Fi
- Reconnect your devices using the new password
The second method is even simpler: download a reputable router management app, which gives you an easy-to-navigate platform through which you can change the settings on your router.
If you experience slower web speeds after making changes, don’t worry: you can often speed things up with a few simple tricks.
How to Change Your Wi-Fi Password From a Mobile Device
You can also change your Wi-Fi password from a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. As long as you can access a secure web browser, you’ll be able to change the password using the same instructions as above. With mobile devices, the option of using an app may make this process easier.
How to Reset Your Wi-Fi Password in an Emergency
If you’ve recently changed your Wi-Fi password and can’t remember it, don’t worry. Most routers have a reset button, usually located on the base or side of the router. Pressing this button will cause a complete factory reset, which will make your router revert to its original settings—including the original password (which typically is included on a label, somewhere on the router itself).
If you’ve simply forgotten your password and need to remind yourself what it is, or if you’re setting up a new device or want to share your Wi-Fi network with guests, don’t stress. You can use any device already connected to your network to look up your password: it should be visible in your settings, wherever your network and connectivity are managed.
Tips for Securing Your Wi-Fi Network
- Change your default router login credentials. If you’ve just logged into your router to change the password, you’ve seen firsthand how simple default usernames and passwords are (often simply “admin” for both). Changing these credentials will help to prevent unauthorized access to your router settings.
- Use a strong, complex Wi-Fi password that uses uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols.
- Update your router firmware regularly. Manufacturers will release regular updates to help fix any vulnerabilities that have been identified.
- Monitor what devices are connected to your Wi-Fi and change your password if you see any unfamiliar devices.
Perfect and Protect Your Passwords
Don’t be one of the thousands of internet users leaving their Wi-Fi network unprotected, simply because you’re not proactive about your passwords. For more security suggestions and expert advice, reach out to our support team today.
FAQ
How do I share my Wi-Fi password on iPhone?
It’s very easy to share your Wi-Fi password from one Apple device to another if they each have the other saved as a contact. Make sure that the devices are close to each other, and on the iPhone currently connected to the Wi-Fi, go to Wi-Fi settings. The device that needs the Wi-Fi password should then attempt to connect to it: a popup will then appear on the connected phone, asking if you want to share the Wi-Fi password. Simple!
How do I change the name of my Wi-Fi on my router?
To change the name of your Wi-Fi (SSID) on your router, log into your router with your admin username and password. Within the Wi-Fi settings, you’ll see an option for SSID (Network Name): this is where you can enter a new name for your Wi-Fi network. Avoid using any personal information, and remember to save your changes. Your Wi-Fi will restart, and once it’s reappeared with its shiny new name, you will need to reconnect any devices.
Does changing your router change your Wi-Fi password?
Yes, changing your router will usually change your Wi-Fi password. A new router will come with new default settings, and your previous router’s settings will not automatically carry over. However, if you want to keep your old Wi-Fi name and password, you can log into your new router and change these manually.
Is my Wi-Fi password the same as my router password?
No, your Wi-Fi password and router password are different credentials. Your Wi-Fi password is for connecting devices to the internet, while your router password is used to access your router’s settings.
