The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →To change your router’s Wi-Fi name or password, open the official app or administration page for your router, go to its Wi-Fi or wireless settings, edit the network name (SSID) and/or password, then save. Menus and requirements differ by router, mesh system, and ISP gateway. Connected devices may need the new details before they can rejoin.
Before you change the Wi-Fi settings
Find the make and model of your router or mesh system, then use its official instructions. An ISP-provided modem/router may use the provider’s app or management page rather than the retail manufacturer’s interface; there is no single login address or menu path that works for every model.
- Have the router’s official setup instructions available in case you need them after saving.
- Choose the new name and password before you begin, and keep the password somewhere you can access while reconnecting devices.
- If you are making the change over Wi-Fi, be prepared for the device you are using to lose its connection when the settings take effect. TP-Link notes this possibility for the Archer AX90; behavior varies by router. TP-Link Archer AX90 user guide
Change the network name and password
- Open the router’s official app or management page. For Nest Wifi and Google Wifi, use the Google Home app. TP-Link’s Archer AX90 guide shows an example of changing these settings in the router interface. Follow the instructions for your specific model rather than assuming these examples apply to yours. Google: Change Wi-Fi network name; Google: Change Wi-Fi password; TP-Link Archer AX90 user guide
- Open Wi-Fi or wireless settings. Look for a field labeled “Wi-Fi name,” “network name,” or “SSID.” The Wi-Fi password may be labeled “password,” “wireless password,” or a similar term.
- Enter the new name, password, or both. Some routers let you use one name and password across Wi-Fi bands; others show separate settings. Use the controls and format requirements shown for your model. For Nest Wifi and Google Wifi, Google specifies an SSID of 1–31 characters with no accidental leading or trailing spaces, and a password of 8–63 characters with no spaces. Those limits are specific to those systems, not universal router rules. Google: Change Wi-Fi network name; Google: Change Wi-Fi password
- Save or apply the change. The router may briefly restart its Wi-Fi or disconnect the device you are using. If that happens, join the network again with the updated details.
Choose a secure password and compatible security setting
Use a strong Wi-Fi password and select a security mode supported by both your router and the devices that need to connect. Google recommends WPA2 for security and compatibility; a TP-Link guide lists WPA2-PSK[AES] and WPA3 as model-specific options. Do not assume that every device supports every mode, and do not disable encryption or select an obsolete mode to work around a connection problem. Check your router’s instructions if the available choices are unclear. Google: Wi-Fi security tips; TP-Link Archer C20 guide
Reconnect devices after saving
Changing a password can disconnect devices until they are updated with the new credentials. If you also changed the network name, devices that saved the old name may not find the renamed network automatically. Reconnect phones, computers, TVs, printers, smart-home devices, and other clients using the new details. Some Nest or Google Home devices may need their network information updated or may require setup again after a credential change. Google: Change Wi-Fi password; Google Nest Help: reconnect devices
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#1 Best Overall
- DUAL-BAND WIFI 6 ROUTER: Wi-Fi 6(802.11ax) technology achieves faster speeds, greater capacity and reduced network congestion compared to the previous gen. All WiFi routers require a separate modem. Dual-Band WiFi routers do not support the 6 GHz band.
- AX1800: Enjoy smoother and more stable streaming, gaming, downloading with 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and up to 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz). Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- CONNECT MORE DEVICES: Wi-Fi 6 technology communicates more data to more devices simultaneously using revolutionary OFDMA technology
- EXTENSIVE COVERAGE: Achieve the strong, reliable WiFi coverage with Archer AX1800 as it focuses signal strength to your devices far away using Beamforming technology, 4 high-gain antennas and an advanced front-end module (FEM) chipset
- OUR CYBERSECURITY COMMITMENT: TP-Link is a signatory of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure-by-Design pledge. This device is designed, built, and maintained, with advanced security as a core requirement.
Should you keep your old Wi-Fi name and password?
If you are replacing a router, using the previous network name and password can help previously connected devices rejoin without entering new details, provided the new router accepts those settings. But if the old router is still broadcasting the same name, devices may connect to either router, switch between them, or have trouble communicating with devices on the local network. Turn off Wi-Fi on the old router or give it a different name unless the two-router setup is intentional. Google: Devices are connected to another router’s Wi-Fi network
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Dual band router upgrades to 1200 Mbps high speed internet (300mbps for 2.4GHz plus 900Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K stream
- Full Gigabit Ports - Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, ideal for any internet plan and allow you to directly connect your wired devices
- Boosted Coverage - Four external antennas equipped with Beamforming technology extend and concentrate the Wi-Fi signals
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- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
Rank #4
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Rank #3
- NIGHTHAWK WIFI 6 ROUTER FOR YOUR WHOLE HOME: Delivers fast, reliable WiFi across every room of your apartment or small home for streaming, gaming, video calls, and smart home devices, all running at the same time without slowing each other down.
- WORKS WITH YOUR EXISTING INTERNET SERVICE: Pairs with your existing modem or gateway via ethernet. Compatible with most cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite providers. Some gateways and modem router combos may require bridge mode. No coax needed.
- SET UP AND MANAGE YOUR NETWORK WITH THE NIGHTHAWK APP: Download the free Nighthawk app on iOS or Android for guided setup. Manage WiFi, run speed tests, pause devices, and set up guest networks from anywhere. Active internet required.
- READY FOR THE DEVICES YOU ALREADY OWN: Your phones, laptops, and TVs work right out of the box. WiFi 6 delivers speeds up to 1.8 Gbps across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Backward compatible with WiFi 5 and earlier.
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Rank #2
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with 5 GHz speeds up to 867 Mbps and 2.4 GHz speeds up to 300 Mbps, delivering 1200 Mbps of total bandwidth¹. Dual-band routers do not support 6 GHz. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- Covers up to 1,000 sq. ft. with four external antennas for stable wireless connections and optimal coverage.
- Supports IGMP Proxy/Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN to optimize IPTV streaming
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
- Advanced Security with WPA3 - The latest Wi-Fi security protocol, WPA3, brings new capabilities to improve cybersecurity in personal networks
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