This article only applies to legacy NETGEAR routers that use the Smart Wizard web interface. For newer NETGEAR routers, see How do I change my NETGEAR router's WiFi password or network name (SSID)?
If you still use a legacy NETGEAR router with the Smart Wizard router web interface, we recommend that you consider replacing it with a newer model. While your existing router might still work just fine, WiFi security standards and performance have improved since Smart Wizard products were discontinued.
If you can’t replace your legacy Smart Wizard router, make sure that it is configured with a unique wireless network name (SSID) and strong password. By default, many older NETGEAR routers with the Smart Wizard web interface used a SSID of NETGEAR with no password required for WiFi access. Because these settings allow anyone to discover and access your WiFi network, you should only use this configuration during first time setup and change your SSID and password immediately after.
To change the router password or network name (SSID) on your older NETGEAR Smart Wizard router:
- Launch a web browser from a device that is connected to your router's network.
- Enter routerlogin.net or http://192.168.1.1 in the address bar.
The router login window displays.
- Enter the router admin user name and password.
The user name is admin. The default password is password. The user name and password are case-sensitive.
The Smart Wizard interface displays.
- From the left side navigation pane, under Setup, select Wireless Settings.
The Wireless Settings page displays.
- Enter a unique Name (SSID) for each of your router’s available bands.
- In the Security Options section, select the type of security to use.
WPA2 is the best option if your router supports it, followed by WPA. WEP security is easily decoded and should only be used if there is no other option. For more information, see What is WEP security and how do I set it up?
- In the Passphrase field, enter a new password (network key).
You can enter any text string from 8 to 63 characters as your password. The password is case-sensitive.
- Click or tap Apply.
Your changes are saved.
If your device disconnects from your WiFi network after you save your changes, view the available wireless networks again and reconnect using the new WiFi network name and password.
Last Updated:05/10/2022
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Article ID: 23438