Forgot router password

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Level 1

20 points

Forgot router password

It seems that I've forgotten the password for my router that I set up a few weeks ago using Network Setup Assistant. The router is a Linksys N-Ultra RangePlus. How do I find or reset my password?

Thanks.

MacBook Pro 15", Mac OS X (10.4.11)

Posted on May 31, 2009 8:10 PM

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Answer 1

Mar 28, 2017 7:55 AM in response to omm1992

Many ISPs cascade Routers in their Internet Infrastructure. When they are reset, some Routers can get their IP address and subnet mask and DNS server numbers from another Router Upstream via DHCP.

To elaborate, your Router is reset by default to DHCP on its Wide Area Network side. It momentarily takes a "self-assigned" IP address so that it can be identified. It broadcasts a message UPSTREAM to the next higher Router that your ISP is providing, and the higher Router provides the "real" IP address and the other needed information.

If this is just "word salad" to you, please post back and I can try to explain further.

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Answer 2

May 31, 2009 8:26 PM in response to CaptainADD

First, check Utilities > Keychain Access for the password.

Else, find the router reset button, which may be an unmarked pinhole, usually on the back of the router. Unravel a paperclip if necessary, to use as a tool. Press and hold down the reset button as long as it takes to reset the router. This is typically 10 seconds or so, but you really need a manual to be sure. Common default usernames are admin, or blank (ie type nothing, just leave blank). Some common default passwords are password, admin, 1234, sky (for UK Sky users), or blank (no password). Check your manual for this, or try a Google search. It’s important that you find the correct default password for your router.

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Answer 3

dwb

Level 7

33,100 points

Jun 1, 2009 4:01 AM in response to CaptainADD

As neuroanatomist said, if you can't come up with the password, your router can be reset to factory default by performing a hard reset. If you don't have your router's manual either go to the manufacturer's web site to get a PDF manual or just google your router's model name to find it. The manual will tell you how to do the hard reset. (After doing the reset you'll have to totally reconfigure it.)

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Answer 4

CaptainADD Author

Level 1

20 points

Jun 1, 2009 11:06 PM in response to CaptainADD

That did it. I had to find my welcome letter with info like my static IP and subnet mask on them, but I got it working again.

I also discovered after the reset that this router (and probably several other Linksys ones) automatically saves your username and password to the desktop, where it was all along. Oh well. I guess I'll know for next time.

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Answer 5

CaptainADD Author

Level 1

20 points

Jun 1, 2009 11:07 PM in response to CaptainADD

Strangely enough, it actually didn't matter what the default password was.

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Answer 6

omm1992

Level 1

0 points

Feb 6, 2010 3:48 PM in response to CaptainADD

I'm afraid I have the same problem as well. However, I'm reluctant to try and reset my router as I am really not that tech savvy; I'd have no idea how to find my subnet mask or static IP. Could I possibly get some assistance with that?

Thanks in advance.

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Answer 7

sig

Level 8

35,862 points

Feb 6, 2010 7:47 PM in response to omm1992

Follow the router manufacturer's instructions on how to reset the router back to factory settings. It usually entails using a paper clip and inserting it into a small recess for 10-30 seconds. if you post the brand and model router maybe we can help. Afterward I would recommend you write it down somewhere.

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Answer 8

Mar 27, 2017 10:03 PM in response to CaptainADD

Would the router password be the same as the WiFi Password? Or, is each function different.

In other words in setting up my Apple router ....is that the same as the wifi?

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Answer 9

Mar 28, 2017 7:45 AM in response to Pete Kroner

No the router password is not the same as the wifi. Read the router documentation.

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