How to Change Wifi Password Android? Update From Settings

Introduction

Changing your WiFi password is one of those tasks that sounds complicated until you actually do it. Whether you recently bought a new router, suspect someone is using your network without permission, or simply want to follow good security habits, knowing how to update your wireless credentials is essential. For Android users, the process can feel a little confusing because the password change itself usually happens at the router level, while your phone simply needs to reconnect with the new information.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about How to Change Wifi Password Android? You will learn how to access your router settings, update the password, and then reconnect your Android phone or tablet. We also cover what to do if you forget the current password, how different Android manufacturers handle WiFi menus, and practical tips to keep your network secure.

By the end of this article, you will be able to change your WiFi password confidently and make sure your Android device stays connected without interruptions.

Table of Contents

• Why You Might Want to Change Your WiFi Password on Android
• What You Need Before You Start
• Method 1: Change WiFi Password Through Router Settings
• Method 2: Update WiFi Password on Android for a Saved Network
• Method 3: Using QR Code to Share Updated Password
• Android Version Differences: Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, and More
• Comparison: Changing WiFi Password on Android vs. Router
• Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Tips and Best Practices for WiFi Security
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Why You Might Want to Change Your WiFi Password on Android

There are several good reasons to change your WiFi password, and most of them have nothing to do with your Android phone specifically. The password lives on your router, not on your device. However, because your Android phone stores that password to connect automatically, any change at the router level requires you to update the connection on your phone as well.

One common reason is security. If you have been using the same password for years, it is a good idea to rotate it regularly. Another reason is unauthorized access. If you notice your internet is slower than usual or see unfamiliar devices connected to your network, changing the password can kick unwanted users off immediately. You might also want to change it after giving the password to a guest, a contractor, or a former roommate who no longer needs access.

Some people change their WiFi password after buying a new router because the default credentials printed on the sticker are easy to guess. Others do it simply because they want a password that is easier to remember or type on a small Android keyboard. Whatever your reason, understanding How to Change Wifi Password Android? starts with understanding that the change happens in two places: the router and the phone.

What You Need Before You Start

Before you begin, gather a few items so you do not get stuck halfway through the process. First, you need access to your router. This usually means knowing the router’s admin username and password. These are often printed on a label on the bottom or back of the device, though many people change them during setup.

Second, you need a device that can connect to the router. You can use your Android phone, but a laptop or tablet is sometimes easier because the larger screen makes router menus simpler to read. Make sure the device is connected to the WiFi network you want to modify, or connect via Ethernet cable if you have one.

Third, have a pen and paper or a notes app ready to write down the new password. Choose something strong but memorable. Avoid using obvious information like your birthdate, address, or phone number. Finally, make sure your Android phone is charged. You do not want the battery to die while you are reconnecting to the network.

Method 1: Change WiFi Password Through Router Settings

This is the primary method for changing your WiFi password. Because Android does not let you change the router’s password directly from the phone’s settings, you must log into the router’s admin panel through a web browser.

Step 1: Find Your Router’s IP Address

Most home routers use a default IP address such as 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. To find the exact address on your Android device, open the Settings app, tap Network & internet or Connections depending on your Android version, tap WiFi, and tap the gear icon next to your connected network. Look for Gateway or Router under the network details. The number listed there is your router’s IP address. If you cannot find it on Android, check the sticker on your router or try typing 192.168.1.1 into your browser’s address bar.

Step 2: Log Into Your Router Admin Panel

Open a web browser on your phone or computer and type the router’s IP address into the address bar. Press Enter. You should see a login screen asking for a username and password. Enter the admin credentials. If you have never changed them, try common defaults such as admin for both username and password, or admin for the username and a blank password. If those do not work, look at the label on your router or search for your router model’s default login information online.

Note: The router admin password is different from your WiFi password. The admin password lets you change settings, while the WiFi password is what your Android phone uses to connect.

Step 3: Navigate to Wireless Settings

Once logged in, look for a menu labeled Wireless, WiFi Settings, WLAN, or something similar. Router interfaces vary by brand, so you may need to explore a bit. Some routers place wireless options under Advanced Settings or Home Network. Inside the wireless menu, look for fields labeled SSID (your network name), Security Mode, and Password or Pre-Shared Key.

Step 4: Change the Password and Save

Delete the current password and type your new one. Make sure the security mode is set to WPA2-PSK (AES) or WPA3 if your router supports it. Avoid WEP, which is outdated and insecure. After entering the new password, look for a Save, Apply, or Submit button and click it. The router may take a few moments to apply the changes. Some routers will reboot automatically, which will briefly disconnect all devices.

Step 5: Reconnect Your Android Device

After saving the new password, your Android phone will likely lose its connection because it is still trying to use the old password. You need to update it. Open Settings on your Android phone, go to Network & internet > WiFi, find your network in the list and tap it. If prompted, enter the new password and tap Connect. If your phone does not prompt you, tap the network name and select Forget, then reconnect from scratch. Your Android device should now be connected with the new credentials.

Method 2: Update WiFi Password on Android for a Saved Network

Sometimes you do not need to change the router password at all. You might simply need to tell your Android phone to forget an old password and use a new one. This is common if you changed the password through a computer or if someone else updated the router for you.

Step 1: Open Settings

Unlock your Android phone and open the Settings app. You can usually find it in your app drawer or by pulling down the notification shade and tapping the gear icon.

Step 2: Go to Network & Internet

Scroll down and tap Network & internet. On Samsung devices, this menu is often called Connections. On Pixel and OnePlus phones, it remains Network & internet.

Step 3: Select WiFi

Tap WiFi to view available networks. Make sure WiFi is turned on. You should see your home network listed under saved or available networks.

Step 4: Forget the Network

Tap the gear icon next to your network name, or long-press the network name depending on your Android version. Select Forget or Forget network. This removes the saved password from your phone.

Step 5: Reconnect With the New Password

After forgetting the network, tap the network name again from the list of available networks. Your phone will ask for the password. Type the new WiFi password carefully, paying attention to uppercase and lowercase letters, then tap Connect. Once connected, your Android device will remember the new password and reconnect automatically in the future.

Method 3: Using QR Code to Share Updated Password

Many modern Android phones running Android 10 and later can share WiFi credentials using a QR code. This is useful if you changed the password and want to let a family member or guest join without typing it manually.

To generate a QR code for your network, go to Settings > Network & internet > WiFi. Tap the gear icon next to your connected network. Look for a Share or QR code option. Authenticate with your fingerprint, PIN, or face unlock if prompted. Show the QR code to the other person. They can scan it with their phone’s camera to join the network automatically.

Keep in mind that this method shares the password you currently have saved. If you changed the router password but forgot to update your phone, the QR code will still contain the old password until you reconnect with the new one.

Android Version Differences: Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, and More

Android is not identical across every phone. While the core steps are similar, menu names and layouts can vary by manufacturer and Android version.

On Samsung Galaxy devices, you will typically go to Settings > Connections > WiFi. The gear icon next to a network opens detailed settings, including an option to forget the network or view a QR code.

On Google Pixel phones, the path is usually Settings > Network & internet > Internet or WiFi. Pixel devices often include a direct Share button for QR codes.

OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Motorola devices follow similar patterns but may place WiFi under Settings > WiFi & network or Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks. If you cannot find the exact menu, use the search bar at the top of the Settings app and type WiFi.

Older Android versions, such as Android 8 or 9, may not show the saved password in plain text and might require you to forget and reconnect the network. Newer versions make it easier to view and share passwords, but the underlying principle remains the same: change the password at the router, then reconnect your phone.

Comparison: Changing WiFi Password on Android vs. Router

It helps to understand the difference between changing the password at the source versus updating it on your phone. The table below compares the two approaches.

Aspect	Change at Router	Update on Android
Where the password is changed	Router admin panel	Android WiFi settings
Effect on network	Updates the password for all devices	Updates only the phone or tablet
Requires admin login	Yes, router username and password	No, only phone unlock
Disconnects other devices	Yes, temporarily	No
Best for	Security, unauthorized users, new router	Reconnecting after a router change
Difficulty	Moderate	Easy

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with clear steps, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

Cannot Access the Router Login Page

If typing the IP address into your browser does not load a login page, make sure your phone is connected to the correct WiFi network. Try turning WiFi off and on again. You can also try a different browser or switch to a computer connected by Ethernet. If you still see nothing, the router may have a custom IP address, or admin access may be disabled over wireless.

Forgot the Router Admin Password

If you do not know the router’s admin username and password, check the label on the device. If someone changed it and you cannot remember, you may need to reset the router to factory defaults. Usually, this involves pressing and holding a small reset button on the back of the router for 10 to 30 seconds. Be aware that this erases all custom settings, including your WiFi name and password, so you will have to set everything up again.

Android Won’t Connect After Password Change

If your Android phone refuses to connect after you enter the new password, first double-check that you typed it correctly. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive. If you are sure the password is right, forget the network and reconnect from scratch. Restarting your phone can also resolve temporary glitches.

Network Does Not Appear in the List

If your network name does not show up, the router may be rebooting after the password change. Wait a minute or two and refresh the WiFi list. If it still does not appear, check whether the router is broadcasting its SSID. Some routers have an option to hide the network name, in which case you must add the network manually.

Tips and Best Practices for WiFi Security

Changing your password is only one part of keeping your network safe. Follow these best practices to protect your Android devices and your personal data.

• Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Avoid older standards like WEP, which can be cracked in minutes.
• Create a strong password. Use at least 12 characters, including uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Change the default router admin credentials. Leaving the admin username and password as admin/admin is a major security risk.
• Set up a guest network. If you frequently have visitors, give them access to a separate guest network instead of your main WiFi.
• Update your router firmware. Manufacturers release security patches that fix vulnerabilities. Check your router admin panel for updates every few months.
• Review connected devices. Periodically check the list of connected devices in your router settings. If you see something unfamiliar, change your password immediately.
• Do not share your main password freely. Use the QR code sharing feature on Android for trusted guests, and remove old devices from your network when they are no longer in use.

Remember: changing your WiFi password on the router disconnects every device, including smart TVs, smart speakers, and security cameras. Be prepared to reconnect them all after the update.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my WiFi password directly from Android settings?

No. Android does not have the ability to change the password stored on your router. You must log into the router’s admin panel through a web browser to change the actual WiFi password. Your Android phone can only forget the old password and save the new one.

What is the default IP address for most routers?

Common default IP addresses include 192.168.1.1, 192.168.0.1, and 192.168.2.1. You can find your router’s exact IP address by checking the WiFi network details on your Android phone or looking at the sticker on the router.

Will changing the WiFi password disconnect my Android phone?

Yes. Once you change the password at the router, any device currently connected—including your Android phone—will be disconnected. You will need to reconnect using the new password.

How do I find my saved WiFi password on Android?

On Android 10 and later, go to Settings > Network & internet > WiFi, tap your connected network, and look for a Share or QR code option. You may need to authenticate with your fingerprint or PIN to reveal the password. On older Android versions, saved passwords are not shown in plain text without root access.

What should I do if I forget my router admin password?

Check the router label for default credentials. If those do not work, perform a factory reset by holding the reset button on the router. After resetting, you can log in with the default username and password and set up your network from scratch.

How often should I change my WiFi password?

There is no strict rule, but changing it every six to twelve months is a good habit. You should also change it immediately if you suspect unauthorized access or after sharing it with someone you no longer trust.

Does changing my WiFi password affect mobile data?

No. Your WiFi password only controls access to your local wireless network. It has no effect on your cellular data plan or mobile network connection.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Wifi Password Android? is a valuable skill for anyone who wants to keep their home network secure and their devices connected. The process happens in two main stages: first, you update the password at the router level through the admin panel, and then you reconnect your Android phone or tablet using the new credentials.

Although Android menus vary slightly between Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, and other brands, the core steps remain the same. Open Settings, go to your WiFi or Connections menu, forget the old network if necessary, and enter the new password. If you run into trouble, the troubleshooting tips in this guide should help you get back online quickly.

Make WiFi security a regular habit. Use strong passwords, enable modern encryption, and review your connected devices from time to time. With these practices in place, you can enjoy fast, reliable internet on your Android device without worrying about unauthorized users on your network.