Short answer: log in to your router, open its wireless (Wi-Fi) settings, type a new password, and save. Then reconnect every phone, laptop and smart device using the new password, because they’ll all disconnect.
Before you start
- You need the router’s admin login, not the Wi-Fi password. NETGEAR points out that the two are different, and that the default settings are printed on a sticker on the router. If you can’t get in, see how to log in to your router.
- Use a wired connection or stay close by. You’ll be disconnected the moment you save.
Change it on your router
- NETGEAR: open routerlogin.net from a device on your network, select Wireless, and enter the new password in the Password (Network Key) field.
- ASUS: in the web interface go to Network > Main network profile (on older firmware, Wireless > General), or use the ASUS Router app.
- TP-Link: log in at tplinkwifi.net and change it under Wireless > Wireless Settings or Basic > Wireless.
Internet provider gateways and other brands have similar settings, usually under Wi-Fi or Wireless.
Choose a strong password
ASUS requires 8 to 63 characters, and TP-Link recommends at least 12, mixing letters, numbers and symbols. A long passphrase of several unrelated words is easier to type on a TV remote than a short random string, and just as hard to guess.
While you’re there, check the security mode. The FTC recommends WPA3 Personal or WPA2 Personal, and the Wi-Fi Alliance has required WPA3 support in new Wi-Fi CERTIFIED devices since 2020. If you have older devices, a WPA2/WPA3 mixed mode keeps them connected.
Reconnect your devices
After you save, every device has to reconnect with the new password. Phones and laptops will usually ask for it. Smart speakers, cameras and printers often need their own app to rejoin, so do them one at a time. If you also changed the network name, devices treat it as a brand-new network.
For the rest of your router’s security settings, see our router security checklist.