How to change your Wi-Fi password via a computer: instructions for all routers

• TP-Link: Wireless → Wireless Settings
• ASUS: Wireless Network → General
• Keenetic: Wi-Fi → Hotspot
• Change your password in the field PSK password, Wireless Password or Network keyCome up with a reliable combination (more on that in the next section).
• Save the settings and reboot the router. There's usually a button for this. Apply or Save.

Make sure you enter the new password twice (many routers have a confirmation field)

Make sure the encryption type is WPA2-PSK or WPA3 (not WEP!)

Write down your new password on paper or in a secure file.

Disable the guest network if you are not using it.

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After saving, all devices will be disconnected from Wi-Fi. You'll need to reconnect them using the new password. If something goes wrong (for example, the router freezes or won't save settings), try reset it to factory settings button Reset on the back panel (hold for 10-15 seconds).

⚠️ Attention: On some routers (for example, MikroTik or Ubiquiti) the interface can be completely different. If you see unfamiliar menus with terms like CAPsMAN or Wireless Table, it is better to use the manufacturer's official documentation.

How to Create a Strong Wi-Fi Password: 2026 Rules

In 2026, brute-force password cracking (brute-force) has become even more efficient thanks to neural networks and cloud computing. Therefore, old recommendations like "use letters and numbers" no longer apply. Here are the current requirements for Wi-Fi passwords:

• 🔐 Length must be at least 12 charactersOptimally, 15–20. Short passwords (8–10 characters) can be cracked in hours.
• 🎲 Use random combinations, not actual words or dates. For example, Tr0ub4dour&3 more reliable than Ivanov1985.
• 📛 Add special characters, but not at the beginning or end (this is predictable). For example: 7H#k9Lm$2pQ!.
• 🔄 Don't use the same password for your Wi-Fi and router account.If a hacker gains access to the settings, they can change them to suit their own needs.
• 📱 Don't store your password in your smartphone's "notes"For these purposes, there are password managers like Bitwarden or KeePass.

A good way to generate a strong password is to use memonic phraseTake a random sentence (for example, "The cat drinks milk under the blue table"), shorten it to its first letters (Kpmpss), add numbers and symbols: KpMpSs!2026#This password is easy to remember, but almost impossible to guess.

Check the strength of your password using specialized services (for example, Kaspersky Password Check or How Secure Is My Password). If the service shows that your password can be cracked in less than 100 years, you can use it.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when changing their Wi-Fi password. Here are the most common mistakes and how to prevent them:

• 🔄 Unsaved settings: after changing the password, many people forget to press Save or ApplyAlways check to see if a notification appears indicating successful saving.
• 📶 Resetting a router without a backup: if you reset the settings with the button ResetIf you don't remember your login details, your router will become bricked. Always keep the factory login and password handy (they're on the sticker).
• 🔒 The password is too complex: if you came up with a combination like x7#K9!pL2@qR4$, but didn't write it down, you'll have to reset the router. The balance between reliability and memorability is important.
• 🌐 Changing settings from a mobile deviceThe router's web interface may display incorrectly on a smartphone, causing errors. Use a PC or laptop.
• 🔌 Power outage during savingIf the router reboots after changing the password, do not unplug it. This may corrupt the firmware.

Another typical problem is device incompatibility with a new type of encryption. For example, if you switched from WPA2 on WPA3, old gadgets (like Kindle 2012 or Samsung Galaxy S3) may stop connecting. In this case, return WPA2 or set up a separate network for legacy devices.

Additional security measures after changing your password

Changing your password is half the battle. To make your network truly secure, take a few more steps:

1. Update your router firmware. Go to the section System or Administration and check for updates. This patches vulnerabilities known to hackers.
2. Disable remote access (chapter Remote Management or Remote administration). This feature allows you to manage your router from the internet—it's only needed by system administrators.
3. Configure MAC address filtering. In the section Wireless MAC Filter You can specify which devices are allowed to connect to the network. Cons: You'll have to manually add MAC addresses for new devices.
4. Change the network name (SSID). Don't use standard names like TP-Link_1234 or ASUS_5GThe name should not reveal the router model or your identity.
5. Disable WPSThis feature simplifies connecting devices, but has critical vulnerabilities. Find the option WPS and deactivate it.
6. Set up a guest networkIf you frequently have guests over, it isolates their devices from your main network.

If you have dual-band router (supports 2.4 GHz And 5 GHz), change the password for both networks. Many users forget about 5 GHz, leaving it with the factory password. Also check if the function is enabled Smart Connect (automatic switching between ranges) - it may interfere with the connection of some devices.

⚠️ Attention: On routers with firmware OpenWRT or DD-WRT The security setup process is more complex. If you're unsure, it's best to leave the default settings or consult a specialist. Incorrect settings can make your network inaccessible.

FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions