How to reset a forgotten username and password on a router

Updated: 12/10/2023 by Computer Hope

Computer Hope does not assist users in bypassing network security measures. However, if you forgot the username or password for a router you own or have authorized access to, the following sections should be of assistance.

Default username and password

Before performing a hard reset on the router, you may want to try the default username and password. While not the same for all routers, it may grant you access. We suggest trying the following entries for their respective fields:

Username: admin or administrator
Password: <Blank>, admin, or password

Tip

If the recommendations above didn't work, the website routerpasswords.com has a comprehensive list of default router login information.

Resetting your router

Linksys router reset button

If the default username and password are not working, it probably was changed by you or your network administrator at some point. Most routers have a small pinhole button on the back or bottom (shown in the picture). Pressing and holding this button for 30 seconds hard resets the router. This action restores all default settings, allowing you to use the factory username and password.

After resetting your router

Once the router is reset, you may enter the setup screen and change the password to whatever you prefer. Also, you'll need to re-enter any configuration settings that were in place before the reset as they'll be set back to their default values.

What if the username and password still won't reset?

If the router is from your Internet service provider, and you cannot perform a hard reset, contact them for help.