Are you having trouble with your internet connection or suspect that someone else is using your Wi-Fi without your permission? Changing your internet password on your router is the first step towards ensuring your network security. In this blog post, we will guide you through how to change the internet password on your router, including the reasons why you need to do it, four methods to change the password, what to do if you can’t change it, bonus tips, and frequently asked questions.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change the Internet Password on A Router
Changing your internet password on your router is essential for your network security. Here are a few reasons why:
- Protects your network from hackers and intruders: You might not know who’s using your Wi-Fi network without your permission. Changing the password ensures that only authorized individuals can access your network.
- Improved network performance: If your Wi-Fi is slow or underperforming, it’s a good idea to change the password. This will often result in faster speeds and improved performance.
- Reset after a security breach: If you suspect there’s been a security breach of your Wi-Fi network, such as a phishing attack or malware infection, changing the password is an essential step to mitigate further damage.
Method 1: Via Web Interface
Changing your internet password using the web interface of your router is the most common method. Here’s how you can do it:
- Connect to your router’s web interface using the router’s IP address and log in.
- Click on the ‘Wireless’ or ‘Wi-Fi settings’ option to open the wireless settings.
- Find the ‘Security Settings’ or ‘Encryption’ option and click on it.
- Choose the security encryption type you want to use for your Wi-Fi, such as WPA2 or WPA3.
- Enter your new password and click ‘Apply Changes’ or ‘Save Settings’ to save the new password.
Pros:
- Easy to change the password
- Can be accessed remotely
Cons:
- May be vulnerable to brute-force attacks or phishing attempts
- May require advanced technical skills
Method 2: Via Mobile App
Most modern routers come with mobile apps that allow you to change the Wi-Fi password with ease. Here’s how to do it:
- Download the mobile app for your router model and launch it.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to sign in to your account.
- Select the Wi-Fi/ Wireless Settings option in the app.
- Choose a security encryption type you want to use for your Wi-Fi, such as WPA2 or WPA3.
- Enter your new password and save the changes.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Can change password easily from anywhere
Cons:
- May not be supported by older router models
- The app may have bugs
Method 3: Via WPS Button
Wi-Fi Protected Setup, or WPS, allows you to change the password on your router without accessing the web interface or mobile app. Here is how you can do it:
- Press the WPS button on the router for three seconds
- The WPS LED light will flash to indicate that it’s in discovery mode.
- Press the WPS button on your device that you want to connect to the Wi-Fi network within two minutes. This could be your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
- The device should now automatically connect to your Wi-Fi network.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to change the password
- No need for web interface or mobile app access
Cons:
- May not be supported by all routers or devices
- May have security vulnerabilities
Method 4: Using Ethernet Cable
Another way to change the internet password on your router is by using an Ethernet cable. Here’s how to do it:
- Connect your device to the router using an Ethernet cable.
- Open your web browser and enter the router’s IP address in the address bar.
- Log in using the default username and password or the one that you have set up.
- Navigate to the wireless settings tab, and choose the security type you want to use.
- Enter your new password and save the changes.
Pros:
- No need to access Wi-Fi network
- More secure compared to WPS
Cons:
- Requires an Ethernet cable
- Changing the password can be time-consuming
What to Do If You Can’t Change The Internet Password on A Router
If you can’t change the internet password on your router, there are a few things you can do:
- Restart your router: This may reset the password back to the factory settings, which could be a temporary fix.
- Reset to factory settings: If restarting doesn’t work, you may have to reset the router to its factory settings. This would mean that all your settings, including your Wi-Fi password, would be lost.
- Call your router manufacturer’s customer service: If all else fails, call the customer service. They will provide you with the necessary assistance and help you reset the password securely.
Bonus Tips
- Change your Wi-Fi password regularly, at least every six months
- Use strong passwords and avoid using personal information such as birthdays.
- Disable WPS on your router, if possible, to mitigate security risks.
5 FAQs on How to Change The Internet Password on A Router
Q1: How often should I change my Wi-Fi password?
A: It’s best to change your Wi-Fi password at least every six months to ensure network security.
Q2: Can I change the password from anywhere?
A: Yes, if your router supports remote access, you can change the password from anywhere with an internet connection.
Q3: What should I do if I forget my Wi-Fi password?
A: You could try logging in to your router’s web interface to retrieve the password or contact your router manufacturer’s customer service.
Q4: Can changing the Wi-Fi password affect the network performance?
A: No, changing the Wi-Fi password won’t affect the network performance unless you change other network settings.
Q5: What other security measures should I take to protect my Wi-Fi network?
A: Besides changing your Wi-Fi password regularly and disabling WPS, you can also use a strong encryption protocol such as WPA2 and implement MAC address filtering.
Final Thoughts
Changing the internet password on your router is essential to maintaining network security. When changing your router’s password, make sure to use strong passwords that are difficult to guess and keep changing it regularly. By following the methods listed above and the bonus tips, you can ensure your Wi-Fi network remains secure and protected from unauthorized access.