A router is a widget that allows you to connect wirelessly to the 5G home internet, whether you’re at work or home. Your router is responsible for controlling your WiFi network at home, including security and parental controls. You will need to learn how to log into a router if you wish to change your setup.
You can wonder why you would want to have access to your router.
You can change three major settings to log into your router.
Security settings should be updated.
A common reason to log into a router is to update security settings. These include but aren’t limited to:
Login to your router: The manufacturer sets the default password for your router. Anyone easily finds these passwords, so it is crucial to change them as soon as possible. You should also change your router login password if there is a security breach.
Password for WiFi: This password allowed members of your family and trusted guests to log in to your wireless network. It is important to change it regularly, especially if someone attempts to steal your WiFi.
Security mode: Different security modes can be used by routers to encrypt data. Many routers have wireless encryption turned off or default to Wireless Encryption Protocol. Wireless Protected Access (WPA2) or WPA2 are recommended for better security.
Modify network settings
You may also wish to log into your router to change its network settings.
Network name: The default network, or Service Set Identifiers (SSID), is generic. It is identical to the SSID for all routers manufactured by your manufacturer. You can change the name to personalize your network and distinguish it from others’ networks.
Channel: Your router may be capable of broadcasting on both the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands, depending on the hardware. There are 11 channels open on the 2.4GHz band in North America. The 5GHz band offers dozens. However, interference can cause both channels to slow down if they broadcast on the same channel as you. To change the channel, log in to your router.
Other settings
Depending on your router, you may have additional settings that you wish to modify. For more information about the available options, refer to your router manual.
How to log in to your router
Each router is unique, so each model will have its own set of steps. Two pieces of data are required to log into any router.
Router login
You cannot log into your router’s login password if you don’t know your router’s login password. If you have not changed it, you can find the default login for most routers at
Click on the dropdown menu to scroll down to the router manufacturer.
Next, click on ‘Find My Password.
Scroll down on the screen to locate your router model.
You can reset your router back to factory settings if you have forgotten your login password. You will find a reset button at your router’s bottom or backside. This will erase all of your settings.
Router IP
You also need to know the router’s Internet Protocol (IP) address. Start a command prompt to find your router’s IP address on Windows 10. To find this on Windows 10, type the letters cmd into Cortana and hit Enter.
Windows 7 users will need to click Start and then Search Programs & Files. Enter cmd and hit Enter. Once you have opened the command prompt box, type ipconfig, look for the line that says Default Gateway under Ethernet, WiFi, or Wireless LAN Adapter.
Your router IP is the sum of all numbers on that line (including any dots between them). It should examine something like 192.168.1.1. This sequence of numbers, dots, and letters should be written down.
Macs:
- Click on System Preferences
- Then Network
- Then advanced.
- Then TCP/IP
This is your router’s IP. The IP does not change if you use a Mac or Windows PC.
How to log into three popular routers
Although they may be different for each manufacturer, there is one way to log in to their routers. We will show you step-by-step how to log in to NETGEAR routers, Linksys routers, and Asus routers.
NETGEAR router login
Step 1: Open your web browser.
Step 2: Type in your router’s IP address and hit Enter.
Step 3: Click OK if you receive a popup warning about an unsafe connection.
Step 4: Type your username or password.
Linksys router login
Step 1: Start a web browser.
Step 2: Enter the IP address of your router and hit Enter.
Step 3: Type your username and password. This is the default login unless you have changed it.
Asus router login
Step 1: Open your web browser.
Step 2: Enter your router’s IP Address.
Step 3: Enter your username and password. This could be the default password or something else you have chosen.
FAQ
How can I get to my router? Penetrate the router’s IP address in a web browser and hit enter.
How do I log in to my router setup page? Enter your default username and password or the username/password you have set up.
How can I change my WiFi password at home? Log in to your router and navigate to security settings.
Where can I find my default login for my router’s router? Scroll down to locate the login information specific to your model.
The bottom line
You will need to log in to your router to control your wireless network. While each model has its specific steps for logging in, they are all similar enough to be easy for you to follow.
