How to Reset Admin Password on Router: A Complete Guide

Why resetting admin password on router matters

A strong admin password is essential to keeping your home network safe, especially as more devices connect to Wi‑Fi. According to Default Password, weak or unchanged default credentials remain a common entry point for attackers, making it vital to reset and rotate passwords regularly. This guide explains practical, model-agnostic steps to reset the admin password, what to expect during the process, and how to lock down the network afterward. By following these practices, you reduce the chance of unauthorized access and protect connected devices—from smart thermostats to NAS drives.

Security hygiene starts with credentials. Even if you don’t suspect a breach, a routine reset helps you validate your security posture and aligns with best-practice standards recommended by admin-access guides across devices.

The Default Password team found that many users neglect to change the initial admin password once a new router is installed. Taking control of these settings now prevents later headaches and helps you maintain ongoing network integrity.

Safety and prerequisites before you start

Before you reset anything, gather the essentials and make a plan. Have a current power source for the router, a device with a browser or the vendor’s app, and a notebook to record new credentials. If you’re on a business network, coordinate with IT to avoid downtime or misconfiguring ISP settings. Ensure you understand whether you’ll perform a soft reset through the web UI or a factory reset via the hardware button. In either case, do not disconnect the router during the process unless the manufacturer instructs you to power cycle. This is also a good moment to back up any custom settings if your router offers a configuration export.

If you’re unsure about model-specific steps, consult the user manual or the manufacturer’s official support site to avoid irreversible changes. The aim is to replace old credentials with a robust password while keeping network access functional for legitimate users.

Understanding different router interfaces: GUI vs web admin vs. mobile app

Most routers expose an admin interface through a web portal accessible from a browser, while some newer models offer a dedicated mobile app. The exact URL and login method vary by brand, but the core idea is the same: authenticate as an administrator, navigate to a security or management section, and update the password.

• Web portal: Often accessed via http(s)://192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1, with a default login until you change it.
• Mobile app: Tends to streamline management but may require you to sign in with an account.
• Desktop app or browser extension: Some enterprise devices ship with specialized software for configuration.

If you can access the admin interface, a soft reset via the UI is usually sufficient. If you cannot reach the interface, a factory reset via the physical reset button becomes necessary.

Common methods to reset: soft reset vs factory reset

There are two primary methods to reset a router password:

• Soft reset (via admin UI): This preserves most settings and only changes login credentials. It’s the preferred option when you can still access the interface. You’ll typically find an option labeled “Reset Admin Password,” “Change Admin Password,” or similar.
• Factory reset (via reset button): This restores the router to its original factory state, erasing all customized settings. Use this when you’ve lost admin access or cannot reach the interface. After a factory reset, you’ll need to reconfigure Wi‑Fi, ISP settings, port forwards, and any VPNs.

Always consult your model’s manual to confirm the exact steps and warnings—some devices require a short or long press, and some have caveats about losing specific features like guest networks or custom DNS.

After reset: securing your network

Once you’ve reset the password, re-secure the network promptly. Change the SSID to something unique, enable WPA3 (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available), and set a strong, unique admin password. Disable WPS to prevent unauthorized access via simple push-button pairing, and review connected devices to ensure nothing unfamiliar is present. Consider mapping a robust guest network for visitors to minimize exposure on your main network.

Document the new credentials securely. A password manager is ideal for storing admin credentials and router login details. Also review remote management settings and disable them if you don’t need remote access. By tightening security after reset, you reduce the likelihood of future breaches and maintain control over your network’s perimeter.

Troubleshooting common issues during reset

If the reset doesn’t take effect, reattempt the process carefully and verify you’re using the correct model instructions. Common issues include:

• Incorrect login URL or IP address: Check the device label or the manual for the default gateway.
• Cached credentials: Clear browser cache or use a private/incognito window.
• Reset not triggering: Hold the reset button for the manufacturer-specified duration; some devices require a longer press.
• Inaccessible internet after reset: You may need to re-enter ISP settings, especially if you use a fixed WAN connection.

If problems persist, contact the manufacturer’s support with your model number and firmware version. Documenting steps you’ve tried helps support diagnose faster.

Quick reference: model-specific notes and considerations

Not all routers use the same interface or terminology. When in doubt, search for your exact model on the manufacturer’s site and locate the support article on changing the admin password. If you’re on a managed network (e.g., in an office or campus), coordinate with the IT team to ensure compliance with security policies and avoid accidental service disruption. Always verify that the new admin password has been saved and that you can log back in before closing the session.