Resetting your router and changing its password is necessary to improve internet connectivity and keep your network secure. A router is a device that connects all your devices to the internet, and it is essential to have a strong and secure password to prevent unauthorized access.
In this article, we will provide you with several methods on how to reset your router and change its password. These methods are simple and easy to follow, and they are suitable for all types of routers. Whether you are a tech-savvy person or not, you can follow these methods and keep your network secure.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Reset Router And Change Password
Your router is your gateway to the internet, and when it malfunctions, you suffer poor connectivity. Sometimes, the cause of the problem might be due to unwanted users accessing your network. Changing your password makes it more challenging for these users to gain access. Additionally, If your router has malfunctioned in any way, resetting it to its default settings can often resolve the problem.
Here are some reasons why resetting your router and changing its password is essential:
Pros:
- Improved internet connectivity
- Prevent unauthorized access
- Maintain the security of your network
- Resolve issues with an unresponsive router
Cons:
- You may need to reconnect all your devices to the router
- You must remember to update all your devices to the new password
Method 1: Via Web Browser
One of the easiest ways of changing your router password is via the web browser. Most routers come with a web interface that lets you configure and manage your router settings. To change your router password, follow the steps below:
Step 1:
Open your web browser and enter the IP address assigned to your router. This information is usually found at the bottom of the router.
Step 2:
Enter the login credentials to your router. Again, this information is usually found at the bottom of your router.
Step 3:
Locate the "Wireless" or "Security" tab, depending on the model of your router.
Step 4:
Click on "Wireless" and then select "Wireless Security" or "Security Settings."
Step 5:
Locate the "Password" or "Passphrase" section and enter your new password.
Step 6:
Save the new password, and the router will restart.
Pros:
- Simple and easy to follow
- Does not require any additional tools or software
- Compatible with most types of routers
Cons:
- The interface and options may vary depending on the router model and manufacturer
- Requires knowledge of the router login credentials
Method 2: Via Router Reset Button
If you have forgotten your router password, or the web interface is not functioning correctly, you can use the reset button to factory reset the router and change the password. The steps to reset your router via the reset button are as follows:
Step 1:
Locate the reset button on your router. This button is usually located at the back of the router and is small and round.
Step 2:
Press and hold the reset button for at least 15 seconds.
Step 3:
Wait for the router to reset, and the power light on the router will begin to blink.
Step 4:
Connect your computer or device to the router with an Ethernet cable.
Step 5:
Open your web browser and enter the router’s IP address.
Step 6:
Log in to the router using the default login credentials, which are usually found at the bottom of the router.
Step 7:
Locate the "Wireless" or "Security" tab, depending on the model of your router.
Step 8:
Click on "Wireless" and then select "Wireless Security" or "Security Settings."
Step 9:
Locate the "Password" or "Passphrase" section and enter your new password.
Step 10:
Save the new password and restart the router.
Pros:
- Resets your router to the default settings, resolving any issues the router previously had
- Requires no additional tools or software
Cons:
- The reset process may remove all custom settings and configurations
- You will need to reconnect all devices to your network and update your password on all devices
Method 3: Via Router Software
Some routers come with software that you can install on your computer to manage your router settings. Using the router software, you can easily change your router password. To change your password via the router software, follow the steps below:
Step 1:
Insert the router software installation CD into your computer and follow the instructions on the screen.
Step 2:
Once the installation is complete, open the router software on your computer.
Step 3:
Enter the administrator login credentials for your router.
Step 4:
Locate the "Wireless" or "Security" tab, depending on the model of your router.
Step 5:
Click on "Wireless" and then select "Wireless Security" or "Security Settings."
Step 6:
Locate the "Password" or "Passphrase" section and enter your new password.
Step 7:
Save the new password and restart your router.
Pros:
- Simple and easy to use if your router has software available
- No need to access the web browser login page
Cons:
- Software may require additional system resources and take up space on your computer
- May not be compatible with all types of routers
What to Do If You Can’t Reset Router And Change Password
If you are unable to reset your password or change it, there are several steps you can take to resolve the problem. These steps include:
1. Try the default username and password:
All routers have a default username and password assigned by the manufacturer. Check the router’s documentation or online resources to find the default login credentials.
2. Check for firmware updates:
Sometimes, a router may not allow you to access the login page due to outdated firmware. Check your router’s documentation or online resources to find out how to update the firmware.
3. Try a different browser or device:
Sometimes, browser settings or device settings may prevent you from accessing the router login page. Try using a different browser or device to access the page.
4. Contact your ISP or manufacturer:
If you have exhausted all the other options and still cannot reset or change your router’s password, contact your internet service provider or the router manufacturer for assistance.
Bonus Tip
To prevent unauthorized access to your network, it is essential to keep your router software updated. Manufacturers release new updates to fix identified vulnerabilities and improve performance. Therefore, it is crucial to check your router software from time to time and update it immediately if newer updates are available.
5 FAQs
Q1: How often should I reset my router?
A: You should reset your router whenever it is experiencing issues like slow connectivity, and you should also reset the router’s password whenever you feel that your network has been compromised.
Q2: How do I find my router’s IP address?
A: You can find your router’s IP address by checking the documentation that came with your router or by running the "ipconfig" command on Windows or "ifconfig" command on Mac or Linux.
Q3: What happens after I reset my router?
A: After resetting your router, all custom settings will be removed, and the router will return to its default settings. You will need to set up your router again, including updating all your devices to the new network password.
Q4: Why is it important to change the router password?
A: Changing your router’s password makes it more challenging for unauthorized users to access your network. This ensures that your network remains secure and your privacy is not compromised.
Q5: What is router firmware?
A: Router firmware is the software that controls the router’s hardware and allows it to communicate with other devices. Firmware updates are released periodically to improve the router’s performance, fix bugs, and patch security vulnerabilities.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, resetting your router and changing its password is essential for maintaining internet connectivity and keeping your network secure. This article has presented several methods for quickly and easily resetting your router’s password, including the web browser, reset button, and router software methods. By following these methods, you can ensure that your network remains secure, and unwanted users are kept out.