Many users wonder if it’s possible to change the name on their Linksys router. Whether you want to personalize your network or enhance security, modifying the router’s name is a common task.
This article explores what “name” refers to in the context of a Linksys router and guides you through the process of changing it effectively.
Understanding What “Name” Means on a Linksys Router
When people talk about the “name” on their Linksys router, they usually mean one of two things:
- SSID (Service Set Identifier): This is the public name of your wireless network that devices see when connecting via Wi-Fi.
- Router Hostname/Device Name: This is the internal name the router uses on the network, visible in device lists or network management tools.
Both can be changed, but they serve different purposes and require different steps. The SSID is what most users want to change to personalize or secure their Wi-Fi network.
The router hostname is generally less visible but can be modified for easier network management.
Why Change the Name on Your Linksys Router?
Personalization: Changing the SSID allows you to easily identify your network among others nearby.
Security: Using a default router name or SSID can make your network a target for hackers who recognize common factory settings.
Organization: For homes or offices with multiple routers, unique names help distinguish devices for troubleshooting or management.
Aesthetics: Some users prefer creative or branded names that reflect their style or business identity.
“A unique SSID helps prevent confusion and potential security risks associated with default network names.”
Changing the SSID on Your Linksys Router
Changing your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) is straightforward. Follow these steps to update it:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Connect your computer or mobile device to the Linksys router via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. |
| 2 | Open a web browser and enter 192.168.1.1 or myrouter.local into the address bar. |
| 3 | Login to the router’s admin panel using your credentials. The default username and password are often admin/admin or admin/password, but you should have changed these during setup. |
| 4 | Navigate to the Wireless or Wireless Settings section in the menu. |
| 5 | Locate the SSID field, which displays your current network name. |
| 6 | Enter your desired new network name in the SSID field. |
| 7 | Save or apply the changes and reboot the router if prompted. |
| 8 | Reconnect your devices to the new network name, entering your Wi-Fi password as needed. |
After changing the SSID, remember that all devices previously connected to the old network name will need to reconnect to the new SSID. This may require re-entering the Wi-Fi password.
Changing the Router Hostname (Device Name)
The router hostname is useful for network administrators or users who manage multiple devices. It’s typically used for identifying the device on your local network.
Changing it is less common but possible.
Steps to change the hostname on a Linksys router:
- Login to the router admin panel via 192.168.1.1 or myrouter.local.
- Navigate to the Setup or Basic Setup tab.
- Look for a field labeled Router Name or Device Name.
- Enter your preferred name here.
- Save or apply the changes.
- The router may reboot to apply the new name.
Once changed, this name can appear in network maps, device lists, or when accessing the router via network management software.
Important Considerations When Changing Router Names
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| SSID Visibility | Changing the SSID changes what devices see when scanning for Wi-Fi networks. |
| Security | A unique SSID and strong password help protect your network from unauthorized access. |
| Character Limits | SSIDs typically allow up to 32 characters, including letters, numbers, and symbols. |
| Reconnection Required | After changing the SSID, all devices must reconnect using the new network name. |
| Default Credentials | Always change default router login credentials to prevent unauthorized access. |
Troubleshooting Name Change Issues
Sometimes users encounter problems after attempting to change their router’s name. Common issues include not being able to access the router admin page or devices failing to reconnect.
Solutions:
- Ensure you are connected to the router’s network before trying to access the admin panel.
- Clear your browser cache or try a different browser if the admin page doesn’t load.
- Verify that you entered the new SSID correctly and try reconnecting devices manually.
- If locked out, perform a factory reset on the router by pressing the reset button for 10 seconds.
- Make sure you saved changes and waited for the router to reboot after modifications.
“If you forget your router’s admin password or experience connectivity issues, a factory reset will restore default settings, but you will lose all custom configurations.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I change my Linksys router’s Wi-Fi name from my phone? | Yes. You can access the router admin page via a mobile browser or use the Linksys mobile app to change the SSID. |
| Will changing the router name affect my internet speed? | No. Changing the SSID or hostname only affects identification and has no impact on speed or connectivity quality. |
| Is it safe to hide my SSID? | Hiding your SSID can add a layer of obscurity but is not a strong security measure alone. Use WPA2/WPA3 encryption and a strong password. |
| What is the default Linksys router username and password? | Defaults often are username: admin and password: admin or password. Consult your router’s manual for specifics. |
| Can I revert to the original router name after changing it? | Yes. You can change the SSID or hostname back to the original at any time through the admin interface. |
Additional Tips for Managing Your Linksys Router
Keep Firmware Updated: Regularly check for firmware updates via the Linksys website or router admin panel to ensure optimal performance and security.
Use Strong Passwords: Change both your Wi-Fi password and router admin password to complex, unique combinations.
Backup Settings: Before making major changes, back up your router’s configuration. This helps restore settings if something goes wrong.
Consider Guest Networks: If you want to keep your main network private, set up a guest network with a separate SSID and password.
Monitor Connected Devices: Use the router’s device list to see who is connected and block unfamiliar devices.
Summary
Changing the name on your Linksys router is a simple but important step in managing your home or office network. Whether you want to change the Wi-Fi SSID to something recognizable or adjust the router’s hostname for easier administration, it’s straightforward using the router’s web interface or the Linksys app.
Always prioritize security by choosing unique names and strong passwords. Keep your firmware updated and be prepared to reconnect all devices after an SSID change.
By doing so, you ensure a safer and more personalized network environment.
Remember: “A well-managed router with a personalized name and strong security settings is the foundation of a reliable and secure home network.”
