Changing your router’s name, also known as the SSID (Service Set Identifier), is an important step in personalizing your wireless network. This name is what devices see when they scan for available Wi-Fi networks.
Many routers come with default names that are generic and can expose your router’s brand or model, which may pose security risks.
By customizing your router name, you can make your network more recognizable and easier to connect to, while also improving security by avoiding default names that hackers may target. This guide will walk you through the steps to change your router name, explain why it matters, and provide tips to choose a good network name.
What Is a Router Name (SSID)?
The SSID is the public name broadcasted by your wireless router to identify your Wi-Fi network. When you open the Wi-Fi settings on your phone, laptop, or tablet, you see a list of SSIDs representing all available networks nearby.
Your router’s default SSID often reveals the manufacturer’s name, such as “NETGEAR,” “Linksys,” or “TP-Link,” followed by a series of numbers or letters. Changing this default name helps avoid confusion and improves your network’s security.
Remember: The SSID is not a password; it only identifies your network. You still need a secure password to protect your connection.
Why Should You Change Your Router Name?
There are several reasons why changing your router name is beneficial:
- Security: Default SSIDs can indicate the router model, giving attackers clues about vulnerabilities.
- Personalization: Naming your network something unique helps you identify it easily.
- Avoid Confusion: In areas with many Wi-Fi networks, a custom SSID helps prevent connecting to the wrong network.
- Network Management: It makes managing your devices easier when the network name is recognizable.
Before You Start: What You Need
Changing your router name requires accessing your router’s settings page. Here’s what you will need:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Device | A computer, smartphone, or tablet connected to the router (via Wi-Fi or Ethernet). |
| Router IP Address | The local address used to access the router’s admin interface (commonly 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). |
| Login Credentials | Username and password to log into the router. Defaults are often “admin/admin” or “admin/password”. |
| Web Browser | Any modern browser like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. |
Tip: If you do not know your router’s IP or login details, check the label on the router itself or refer to the user manual.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Router Name
Connect to Your Router
Make sure your device is connected to the router’s network. You can be connected either through Wi-Fi or with an Ethernet cable.
This ensures you can access the router interface without interruptions.
Find Your Router’s IP Address
The IP address is the gateway through which you access your router’s settings. Usually, it’s one of the following:
- 192.168.0.1
- 192.168.1.1
- 192.168.1.254
If these don’t work, you can find the IP address manually:
| Operating System | How to Find Router IP |
|---|---|
| Windows | Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig. Look for “Default Gateway”. |
| macOS | Go to System Preferences > Network > Advanced > TCP/IP tab. |
| Linux | Open Terminal and type ip route | grep default. |
Log Into Your Router
Open your preferred web browser and type the router’s IP address into the address bar. You will be prompted to enter a username and password.
Common default usernames and passwords:
| Username | Password | Router Brand |
|---|---|---|
| admin | admin | Many routers (Netgear, Linksys) |
| admin | password | Some Linksys, D-Link |
| admin | <blank> | TP-Link, Asus |
If you have changed your password before and forgotten it, you may need to reset the router to factory settings.
Locate the Wireless Settings Section
Once logged in, navigate to the wireless or Wi-Fi settings. This section may be labeled differently depending on your router:
- Wireless Settings
- Wireless Setup
- Wi-Fi Settings
- Network Settings
Look for a field named SSID, Network Name, or Wireless Network Name.
Change Your Router Name (SSID)
Delete the existing SSID and enter your new desired network name. Be creative but avoid using personal information such as your full name or address.
Security advice: Avoid names that reveal your router brand or location. Instead, use a unique but simple identifier.
Example good SSIDs:
- SunnyHomeWiFi
- BlueSkyNetwork
- SafeNet_2024
- SpeedyConnection
Save Your Changes
After entering the new name, look for a “Save,” “Apply,” or “OK” button on the page. Click it to update the router’s settings.
The router may reboot or disconnect you temporarily from the network. Once updated, your device’s Wi-Fi list will refresh to show the new network name.
Reconnect Devices
Since the SSID has changed, your devices will no longer connect automatically. You will need to select the new network name and enter your Wi-Fi password again.
Important: Changing the SSID does not affect your Wi-Fi password. However, if you want to strengthen security, it’s a good time to update your password too.
Additional Tips for Choosing a Router Name
Choosing the right SSID can improve your network experience. Here are some recommendations:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Use a unique name that you can easily identify. | Avoid using personal info like your full name or address. |
| Keep it short and simple to avoid connection issues. | Don’t use complicated special characters that devices might not support. |
| Use a friendly or funny name if you want to add personality. | Avoid offensive or provocative names to maintain good neighborly relations. |
| Include hints if you manage multiple networks (e.g., “HomeWiFi_1”). | Avoid generic default names like “Linksys” or “NETGEAR”. |
How to Change Router Name on Popular Brands
Different router brands have slightly different interfaces. Below is a quick overview to guide you for popular brands.
| Brand | Default IP Address | Typical Login | SSID Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netgear | 192.168.1.1 | Username: admin Password: password |
Wireless > Basic Settings > Network Name (SSID) |
| Linksys | 192.168.1.1 | Username: admin Password: admin |
Wireless > Basic Wireless Settings > Wireless Network Name |
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Username: admin Password: admin |
Wireless > Wireless Settings > Wireless Network Name |
| Asus | 192.168.1.1 | Username: admin Password: admin |
Wireless > General > SSID |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Username: admin Password: <blank> |
Setup > Wireless Settings > Wireless Network Name |
Consult your router’s manual or support website for precise instructions if you have a different brand or model.
What If You Forget Your Router Login Information?
If you cannot access your router because you forgot the admin username or password, there are ways to regain control:
- Check the Router Label: Many routers have default login credentials printed on a sticker.
- Try Common Defaults: Use common username/password combos mentioned earlier.
- Reset the Router: Press and hold the reset button (usually a small pinhole) for 10-30 seconds. This restores factory defaults including login details.
Note that resetting your router will erase all custom settings, including Wi-Fi passwords and port forwarding rules. You’ll need to reconfigure everything afterward.
How Changing Your Router Name Affects Your Network
Changing the SSID only affects how your network is identified. It does not change your Wi-Fi password or any other settings unless you modify them separately.
Once the SSID is changed, devices that were previously connected will lose their saved connection because they recognize the old name. You must reconnect manually with the new SSID and enter the Wi-Fi password.
This can be especially important if you have many smart home devices, printers, or computers connected. Plan accordingly to minimize downtime.
Summary: Key Points to Remember
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Connect to Router | Use Wi-Fi or Ethernet to connect your device to the router. |
| Find Router IP | Use common IPs or system commands to locate your router’s IP address. |
| Login | Enter admin credentials on the router’s login page. |
| Locate SSID | Navigate to wireless settings to find the network name field. |
| Change Name | Enter a new SSID and save changes. |
| Reconnect Devices | Choose the new network name on your devices and enter the password. |
Final thought: Regularly updating your router’s SSID and password is a simple yet effective way to keep your home network secure and easy to manage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will changing my router name improve my Wi-Fi speed?
A: No, changing the SSID only affects the name shown on devices and does not impact the speed or performance of your internet connection.
Q: Can I use spaces and special characters in my router name?
A: Most routers support spaces, but some special characters may cause connectivity issues. It’s best to use letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores.
Q: How often should I change my router name?
A: There is no set rule, but changing your SSID and password periodically (e.g., every 6 months) can enhance security.
Q: What happens if two nearby routers have the same SSID?
A: Devices may get confused and connect to the wrong network. It’s best to use a unique SSID to avoid conflicts.
Q: Can I change my router name from a mobile app?
A: Many modern routers have companion apps that allow you to change settings including the SSID. Check your router’s brand for available apps.
