How to Recover Router Username and Password

Important Distinction: Admin vs. Wi-Fi Password

Before proceeding, verify which password you need.

  • Wi-Fi Password: Used to connect devices (phones, laptops) to the wireless network.
  • Admin Password: Used to log in to the router’s configuration page (usually 192.168.1.1) to change settings.
    • Note: This guide focuses on the Admin Password.

Method 1: Check the Device Label

Most modern routers have the unique default login credentials printed on the hardware.

  1. Locate the sticker on the bottom or back of the router.
  2. Look for fields labelled:
    • Default IP / Access: (e.g., http://tplinkwifi.net or 192.168.0.1)
    • Username: (e.g., admin)
    • Password / PWD: (e.g., password or a random string like aB3dEf)

Method 2: Common Default Passwords

If the label is missing or unreadable and you have not previously changed the password, attempt the standard default credentials for your manufacturer.

Common Default Combinations:

Manufacturer Default IP Address Username Password
TP-Link 192.168.0.1 / 192.168.1.1 admin admin
Netgear 192.168.1.1 admin password
ASUS 192.168.1.1 / 192.168.50.1 admin admin
Linksys 192.168.1.1 admin admin
D-Link 192.168.0.1 admin (leave blank)
Cisco 192.168.1.1 cisco cisco
Verizon / AT&T 192.168.1.254 admin (see device label)

Note: If these do not work, the password has likely been changed by a user. Proceed to Method 3 or 4.

Method 3: Check Saved Browser Passwords

If you have logged in before, your web browser may have stored the credentials.

Instructions for Google Chrome / Edge:

  1. Open browser Settings.
  2. Navigate to Autofill > Password Manager.
  3. In the search bar, type 192.168 or 10.0.
  4. If a result appears, click the Show (Eye Icon) to reveal the saved password.

Method 4: Factory Reset (Hard Reset)

If the password is lost and cannot be recovered, the router must be reset to factory defaults.

⚠️ CAUTION: This process will erase all current settings, including:

  • Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID) and Password.
  • Internet Provider (PPPoE) login details.
  • Port forwarding and firewall rules.

factory reset router

Reset Procedure:

  1. Power On: Ensure the router is connected to power.
  2. Locate Button: Find the Reset or RST button (usually a small recessed hole).
  3. Press and Hold: Insert a paperclip or pin. Press and hold the button for 10 to 15 seconds.
  4. Observe Lights: Release the button when the LED lights on the front panel flash or when the system restarts.
  5. Re-configure:
    • Wait 2 minutes for the router to reboot.
    • Connect to the network using the info on the device label.
    • Open a browser and go to the default IP (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
    • Log in using the default credentials (e.g., admin / admin).

Troubleshooting Login Issues

Problem: The Reset did not work (the Old password is still active).

  • Cause: The reset button was not held long enough.
  • Solution: Repeat the reset process. Hold the button for 30 seconds specifically.

Problem: Cannot access the login page (Page not loading).

  • Cause: Device is not connected to the router or is using a static IP.
  • Solution:
    1. Ensure your computer is connected to the router via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi.
    2. Set your computer’s IP settings to “Obtain an IP address automatically” (DHCP).
    3. Try a different browser (e.g., use Firefox instead of Chrome).

Problem: The Default password is rejected after reset.

  • Cause: Browser cache or incorrect default data.
  • Solution: Clear browser cache or open an Incognito / Private window and try again. Double-check the physical label on the device.