How To Change My WiFi Password: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your WiFi password is the key to your home or office internet. Over time, you may want to change it — whether to boost security, stop unauthorized users, or simply make it easier to remember. Fortunately, changing your WiFi password is a straightforward process once you know where to look.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to change your WiFi password — no matter which router or internet service provider (ISP) you use.

Why Change Your WiFi Password?

Changing your WiFi password regularly can enhance your network security and improve overall performance. Here are a few common reasons why you might want to update it:

Security: To prevent unauthorized users from accessing your internet.
Performance: Too many users or unknown devices can slow your network.
Control: If you gave your password to someone temporarily, but now want to remove their access.
Personalization: Want a password that’s easier to remember or more personal.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, here’s what you’ll need to have handy:

A device connected to your WiFi network (computer, phone, or tablet)
Your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
Your router login credentials (default username and password or your custom ones)

Note: Your router login is not the same as your WiFi name and password. These are the credentials used to access the router’s settings.

Step 1: Find Your Router’s IP Address

The router’s IP address is the gateway to its settings. Here’s how to find it:

On Windows:

Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
In the Command Prompt, type ipconfig and press Enter.
Look for Default Gateway — that’s your router’s IP address.

On Mac:

Go to System Preferences > Network.
Select your WiFi connection and click Advanced.
Go to the TCP/IP tab — the router’s IP address will be next to Router.

Most commonly, the IP address is:

192.168.1.1
192.168.0.1
192.168.1.254

Step 2: Log In to Your Router

Once you have the IP address:

Open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).
In the address bar, type your router’s IP address and press Enter.
A login page will appear.

Default Login Credentials (if you haven’t changed them):

Brand	Username	Password
TP-Link	admin	admin
Netgear	admin	password
D-Link	admin	admin
Linksys	admin	admin

You can also check the bottom of your router — most devices have a sticker with the default login credentials and IP address.

If you’ve changed the login credentials before and can’t remember them, you may need to reset the router (see troubleshooting below).

Step 3: Navigate to Wireless Settings

Once logged in:

Look for a section labeled Wireless, Wireless Settings, or WiFi Settings.
Click on it to access your network information.

Depending on your router model, this may be under Basic, Advanced, or Setup menus.

Step 4: Change the WiFi Password

Now that you’re in the wireless settings:

Look for a field called Wireless Password, WPA Key, or Pre-shared Key.
Delete the current password and enter a new one.

Tip: Choose a password that is at least 8 characters long, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols for better security.

Click Save or Apply to confirm the changes.

Your router may reboot to apply the new settings.

Step 5: Reconnect Your Devices

After you’ve changed the WiFi password:

All previously connected devices will be disconnected.
You’ll need to reconnect using the new password.

On each device (phone, laptop, smart TV, etc.):

Open the WiFi settings.
Select your WiFi network.
Enter the new password when prompted.

Optional: Change Your WiFi Network Name (SSID)

While you’re updating your password, you might also want to change the WiFi name (SSID) to something more personal or recognizable.

In the same wireless settings menu, look for the SSID or Network Name field.
Enter your new WiFi name.
Save the changes.

Your devices will then see your WiFi under the new name. You’ll need to reconnect just like with the new password.

Troubleshooting: Can’t Access Your Router?

If you run into issues:

1. Forgot Router Login:

Check the back of the router for default login info.
If you changed it and forgot it, perform a hard reset by pressing and holding the reset button (usually on the back) for 10 seconds.

2. Wrong IP Address:

Double-check using the ipconfig method.
Try common IPs like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.

3. Can’t Save Changes:

Make sure you’re logged in as an administrator.
Try using a different browser or clearing your cache.

Conclusion

Changing your WiFi password is a simple yet powerful way to keep your home network secure and under control. While it may seem a bit technical at first, following the steps in this guide will make the process smooth and hassle-free.

Take the time to set a strong, memorable password and ensure all your devices are updated with the new credentials. Regularly updating your WiFi password keeps freeloaders out and your internet connection safe.

FAQs: Changing WiFi Password

Q1: Will changing my WiFi password disconnect everyone?

A: Yes. Any device that was connected with the old password will be disconnected and must reconnect using the new password.

Q2: How often should I change my WiFi password?

A: Every 3–6 months is a good rule of thumb, especially if you’ve shared your password with others.

Q3: Can I change my WiFi password from my phone?

A: Yes, if your phone is connected to the WiFi and you know the router’s IP address and login credentials.

Q4: Will my router reset if I change the password?

A: No. Only the password changes — your router will not lose other settings unless you perform a full reset.