What can I do if I forget the login password of the TP-Link Wireless Router?

If you've forgotten your TP-Link router login password, a factory reset is the only way to regain access. There is no way to recover or look up a lost password. Some TP-Link routers use "admin" as the TP-Link default password and username, while other models require a custom password you create during first-time setup.

Key Takeaways

• Some TP-Link routers use "admin" as both the default username and password. Others require a custom password created during first-time setup.
• If you've tried "admin" and any other passwords you remember and none work, a factory reset is the only option.
• To reset, press and hold the Reset button on the router for about 10 seconds while it is powered on.
• After a reset, the router returns to factory defaults and will need to be set up again from scratch.

What's the TP-Link Router's Username and Password?

Some routers have a default login username and password, which are both "admin," while others require you to create a custom one upon first login. If you have tried "admin" or other passwords you recall but none work, you will need to factory reset your router.

Note: Not sure if you have a Wi-Fi password issue instead? The admin login password and your Wi-Fi password are two different things. If you can still connect to Wi-Fi but can't reach the admin panel, you have a login password issue. If you can't connect to your Wi-Fi network at all, see what to do if you forget your TP-Link Wi-Fi password.

How to Reset Your TP-Link Router to Factory Defaults

Resetting the router erases all your custom settings, including your internet settings, Wi-Fi settings, and admin password. The router will return to its out-of-box state.

Before you begin:

1. Make sure the router is powered on. Do not unplug it during the reset.
2. Locate the Reset button on the back or bottom of the router. Depending on the model, this may be a small pinhole button (requiring a pin or paperclip) or a recessed button you can press with your finger.
3. With the router powered on, press and hold the Reset button for approximately 10 seconds.
4. Release the button. The router's LEDs will flash, or the device will power cycle, indicating the reset is in progress.
5. Wait for the router to fully reboot before attempting to reconnect.

For full step-by-step instructions, see the guide on how to reset a TP-Link router to factory defaults.

What to Do After Resetting

Once the router has rebooted, you can access the admin panel again by opening a browser and going to tplinkwifi.net or 192.168.0.1. You'll be prompted to create a new admin password and run through the setup wizard.

For help logging in after the reset, see how to log in to your TP-Link router's web management page. For help completing the initial configuration, see the TP-Link Wi-Fi router setup guide on the web management page.

How to Avoid This Problem in the Future

Once you've set a new admin password, here are two easy ways to make sure you don't lose it again:

• Save it in a password manager app on your phone or computer.
• Write it on the label card that came in the box with your router and keep it somewhere safe.

You can also update your admin password at any time from the router's web management page. See how to change the administrative password on a TP-Link device for instructions.

Some newer router models also offer a password recovery option through a linked TP-Link ID. See how to recover the login password for routers with the new TP-Link logo to find out if this option is available for your model.