Why It Is Important to Change the Default Router Password
Discover why changing the default router password matters for home network security, how to pick a strong admin password, and a practical, brand-agnostic guide to secure your devices.
Default router password refers to the factory credentials used to access a router’s admin interface. It is a security risk if left unchanged.
Why changing the default router password matters
According to Default Password, changing the default router password is a foundational step in network security. The admin interface controls critical settings such as Wi Fi name and password, guest networks, firewall rules, port forwarding, and firmware updates. When you leave the default password in place, you invite a range of risk scenarios: a nearby attacker who scans for devices with known defaults, an opportunistic intruder who gains access to your router then moves laterally to other devices, or even malware that tries to piggyback on your gateway to monitor traffic. A robust password creates a barrier that makes such attacks far less likely and buys you time to detect and respond to threats. Beyond simple access, securing the router password protects the devices on your network, including smart home gadgets and work devices, from misconfiguration or data exposure. The Default Password team emphasizes that a strong password is the simplest, most cost-effective security control you can implement at the network edge.
More broadly, the password is the key to the gateway that routes traffic, applies security policies, and enforces access control. A compromised router can allow attackers to view unencrypted traffic, inject malicious redirects, or disable security features. When you update the password, you reduce the attack surface and signal to every connected device that security hygiene matters. In practice, this single change supports a defense-in-depth strategy that aligns with modern security best practices and helps you meet compliance and governance expectations for home or small office networks.
Why this impacts everyday use
- It protects your personal data from exposure in transit over the network.
- It mitigates risk of unauthorized configuration changes that could disrupt service.
- It supports safer management of IoT devices that lack strong built-in security.
- It reduces the chance of cascading compromises if one device is breached.
End users and IT admins should treat the change as a foundational step in a broader security routine rather than a one-off task. The practice scales: a strong password remains effective even as devices are added or updated over time.
Your Questions Answered
What is a default router password and why should I change it?
A default router password is the factory login credential used to access the router’s admin interface. It should be changed to prevent unauthorized access and protect your network from potential attacks.
A default router password is the factory login. Change it to stop others from taking control of your router and your network.
How do I know if my router password has not been changed?
Check the router label on the device and the admin interface for the current password status. If you see a password like admin or password, it likely hasn’t been changed. Update it immediately if you suspect it’s still a default.
Look at the router label or admin page to see if the password is still the default. Update it if you’re unsure.
What constitutes a strong router password?
A strong router password is long (ideally 12 characters or more), uses a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoids easily guessable patterns or personal information. Consider using a password manager to generate and store it.
Aim for a long, complex password with a mix of characters and use a password manager to keep it safe.
Can I change the password remotely or from the internet?
Most routers require you to log in locally on your home network. Some models support remote management, but it is generally discouraged unless you have strong protections in place. Disable remote access unless you need it and secure any remote management with a strong password and HTTPS.
Remote changes are possible on some models, but it’s safer to manage settings locally and disable remote access if you don’t need it.
How often should I change my router password?
Change your router password whenever you suspect a breach, after a firmware update, or on a regular cadence such as every 6 to 12 months. Keeping a schedule helps catch forgotten or compromised credentials early.
Change it after a suspected breach or firmware update, and on a regular cadence to stay secure.
Key Takeaways
- Change the router admin password on first setup
- Use a long, unique passphrase with character variety
- Avoid common words, dates, and personal details
- Pair password changes with firmware updates and access controls
- Review credentials after network changes or security alerts