Of all of the tech companies today, Linksys is one of the most recognizable router manufacturers. With a convenient setup and easy-to-navigate interface, the Linksys router is well-known across the globe.

This article breaks down all the steps to set up your Linksys router, including the login, configuration, and reset process. Linksys routers provide many different methods to configure your device’s settings so that you can choose the most convenient one for you.

Before logging in, you have to set up the Linksys router. This involves connecting the router to a power source and the modem. During your initial setup, you should link the item to a PC. Once you log in, you can configure your wireless connection.

How to Set Up the Linksys Router

When installing your Linksys router, choose a location near your modem. Gather everything you need for installation: the router, two Ethernet cords, and the AC power cord. 

1. Choose a convenient place for your router.  Consider plugging the item into the modem and an outlet.

Place the product in the location you want to install it. Plug the router into the modem using an Ethernet cable. Behind the device, insert one end of the Ethernet cord in the WAN port.

On the back of your modem, put the other end of the Ethernet cord in the LAN port. Next, plug the power adapter in, inserting the plug into a wall outlet or a surge protector.

2. Using the second Ethernet cord, connect the router to your PC.

Take the other Ethernet cord and use it to connect your router to a PC. This creates a “hardwire” connection that is stronger than a wireless connection, making the initial login process go more smoothly. 

3. Ensure all the cords are securely connected. Restart the computer, modem, and router.

After all of the cords are securely connected, restart all the units. Wait until everything turns back on, then proceed to log in to your device.

How to Log in to a Linksys Router

You can make changes and update your Linksys router settings by logging into the router’s firmware (the program that operates the router) through an internet connection. Using a web browser, you can update the router’s login information and your wireless settings.

How to Log-in to a Linksys Router on a Windows Computer

1. Open your web browser—type in your router’s IP address.

The IP address (also called the Default Gateway) for most Linksys routers is 192.168.1.1. If you don’t know your router’s IP address, there are several ways you can find it.

The login page on a Mac. (Source)

• On the back of the item, find the default information specific to your router.
• Visit one of two sites: myrouterlocal.net or Linksyssmartwifi.com. These sites will automatically bring you to the login screen.
• Search for your IP address on your computer.

How to Locate Your IP Address on a Windows Computer

1. Enter “cmd” in the search bar. It is located next to the start button or in the Start menu, depending on your PC’s Windows version.
2. Click on the “Command Prompt” app. Type IPCONFIG in the prompt box.
3. Find the listing for “Default Gateway.” The list of numbers is your IP address.

How to Locate Your IP Address on a MAC

1. Click on the Apple icon. It is in the top left-hand corner of your screen.
2. Scroll down to “System Preferences.” Select this option.
3. Under System Preferences, select “Network.”
4. Under the menu to the left, choose Wi-Fi. If you are hardwired, select Ethernet.
5. At the bottom of the screen, click on the “Advanced” button.
6. At the top of the screen, click on the TCP/IP tab.
7. Your IP address is listed next to “Router.”

Once you have entered the IP address in the address bar of your web browser, press “Enter.” Type in the login username and password for your router.

The login information varies depending on the model. In some cases, there is a username; in other cases, there is only a password. The most common username/password combination for Linksys routers is: the username is left blank, and the password is “admin.”

Linksys routers have documentation on the back that usually lists the default IP address and the default username/password combination. It also contains other important information, such as the serial number and the default login information for your wireless connection, which you will need later.

Where Can Find the Default Password to the Router?

Suppose you can’t find the default login username/password on your device. In that case, you can either look in your user manual or consult the chart below for the most common Linksys router models and their corresponding login information.

Linksys Model	Default Username	Default Password	Default IP Address
BEFCMUH4	[none]	admin	192.168.0.1
BEFDSR41W	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFN2PS4	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFSR11	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFSR41	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFSR41W	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFSR81	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFSRU31	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFSX41	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFVP41	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
BEFW11P1	[none]	[none]	192.168.1.1
BEFW11S4	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
CG7500	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E1000	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E1200	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
E1500	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E1550	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E1700	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E2000	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
E2100L	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
E2500	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E3000	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
E3200	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
E4200	[none]1	admin	192.168.1.1
E4200	admin1	admin	192.168.1.1
E800	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E8350	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
E8400	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
E900	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
EA2700	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA2750	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
EA3500	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA4500	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA5800	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
EA6100	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA6200	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA6350	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
EA6400	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA6500	Product 4	admin	192.168.1.1
EA6900	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA7200	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA7300	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA74502	[none]	[none]	[none]
EA7500	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA8250	[none]	[none]	192.168.1.1
EA8300	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
EA8500	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA9200	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
EA9300	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
EA9500	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
MR83003	[user chosen]	[user chosen]	192.168.1.1
MR90003	[user chosen]	[user chosen]	192.168.1.1
WAG120N	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WAG160N	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WAG310G	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WAG320N	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WAG354G	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WAG54G	admin	Product 4	192.168.1.1
WAG54GP2	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WAG54GS	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WCG200	[none]	admin	192.168.0.1
WHW03012	[none]	[none]	[none]
WHW03022	[none]	[none]	[none]
WHW03032	[none]	[none]	[none]
WRH54G	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRK54G	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT110	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT120N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT1200AC	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT150N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT160N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT160N-HP	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT160NL	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT1900AC	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT1900ACS	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT300N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT310N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT3200	admin	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT3200ACM	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT320N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT32X	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT330N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT350N	Product 4	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT400N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT51AB	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54AG	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G2	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3G-AT	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3G-AU	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3G-EU	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3G-ST	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3G-UK	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3GV2-ST	Product 4	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G3G-VN	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GC	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GH	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GL	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GP2	admin	admin	192.168.15.1
WRT54GP2A-AT	[none]	admin	192.168.15.1
WRT54GR	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G-RG	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GS	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GS2	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54G-TM	[none]	admin	Product 4
WRT54GX	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GX2	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT54GX4	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT55AG	[none]	Product 4	192.168.1.1
WRT600N	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRT610N	[none]	Product 4	192.168.1.1
WRTP54G	admin	admin	192.168.15.1
WRTSL54GS	[none]	admin	192.168.1.1
WRTU54G-TM	[none]	admin	192.168.0.1
WTR54GS	[none]	admin	192.168.16.1

After entering the correct default login information, you are now logged in. The next screen is the main menu of the Linksys router.

From here, you can configure your product. Configure is just a fancy term for changing your settings. Use this menu to change your security settings and connect your router to Wi-Fi.

Check out this YouTube tutorial to help with the initial setup and log in:

How to Reset the Linksys Router

If you forget your login information or run into technical difficulties, you may have to reset your device. A factory reset will resolve most minor problems, but it will return your router to the default settings. Make a note of your usernames, passwords, and other security settings before performing the reset.

When the device turns back on, you will have to perform the configuration steps again. Using your list of usernames, passwords, and other settings, you can return the product to all of the settings it had before the reset – just as if you were setting it up for the first time. This is especially helpful for your wireless SSID information since you won’t have to change your devices’ login information.

There are three ways you can perform a factory reset on a Linksys router:

1. Using the reset button
2. Using the 30/30/30 method
3. Using your router’s main menu through an internet browser

How to Reset a Linksys Router with the Reset Button

The most convenient way to reset your product successfully is by using the “Reset” button.

1. Locate the reset button.

The reset button on a Linksys router is usually located on the side of the unit’s back. You can find it easily by the red circle around it. The reset button isn’t traditional; instead, it looks more like a small hole.

The reset button on an Apple router. (Source)

2. Use an object small enough to fit in the hole, such as a paperclip or a ballpoint pen. Insert the tip inside the cave, pressing down the reset button.

Hold down the reset button for about 10 seconds. Hold it down until the lights on the unit start blinking.

3. Release your hold from the reset button when the lights turn off.

Once the lights turn off on the Linksys router, release the reset button. The router will reset itself, and it will turn back on.

4. Wait until the lights turn back on. Check your devices for an internet connection to see if the reset resolved the issue.

The lights on the router should turn back on and remain steady in less than a minute. If the lights are still blinking or do not turn around, try another type of reset. Consider the 30/30/30 method dictated below.

How to Reset a Linksys Router with the 30/30/30 Method

If the traditional way of performing a reset doesn’t work, and you are still having problems with your product, try the 30/30/30 method. This is a more aggressive reset, used most in older devices.

1. Find the reset button on the router. Use a pen or a paperclip to hold the button down for 30 seconds.

Unlike the usual method of resetting a Linksys router described above, you will hold the button down for 30 seconds (instead of 10 seconds). Even if the lights start flashing and turn off, don’t stop holding down the button until 30 seconds have passed.

2. Unplug the router for 30 seconds.

After holding down the reset button for 30 seconds, keep holding it down as you unplug the item. Keep it unplugged for 30 seconds.

3. Plug the router back in, holding down the reset button for 30 seconds.

As you plug the device back in, keep holding down the reset button. Don’t release the button for another 30 seconds.

4. Release the reset button and allow the router to restart itself.

The device should reboot in less than a minute. Check your internet settings for an internet connection. Also, make sure that the issue has resolved itself.

How to Reset a Linksys Router From the Main Menu

Some Linksys routers do not have a reset button at all. If this is the case for your model, then you can perform a factory reset through the router’s main menu.

1. Log in to your router using the username and password. Make a note of any changes you made from the default settings.

Use the default credentials if you haven’t changed the username and password. If you completed all of the configuration steps, write down your router’s username and password, network name and password, and other extra settings you want to restore after the reset.

2. Click on the “Administration” menu.

After you have logged in, find the list of options on the router’s main page. Click on the “Administration” menu.

3. Click on “Factory Defaults.”

Under the Administration menu, select the “Factory Defaults” option.

4. Click the “Restore Factory Defaults” button.

After selecting the “Restore Factory Defaults” button, the router will reset itself. After the reset, use your initial values to re-configure your router. Check for an internet connection, and make sure that the reset has solved all of your issues.

For more information and guided instruction on how to reset your router, check out this Youtube video:

How to Configure Linksys Router

As soon as you log in to your device for the first time, you should take extra steps to make your router and your internet connection more secure. This step of the installation process is the configuration stage. Every item has specific default values assigned to the router username and password and the internet settings. During the configuration stage, you will change these default values to username/password combinations that are harder to guess by someone who might want to hijack your network.

To fully secure the device, we recommend:

• Updating the router’s firmware
• Changing the router’s login username and password
• Changing the wireless (SSID) name and password

We will explain how to complete these standard configurations in this section.  

How to Update the Linksys Firmware

The first step you should take after logging into your device is to make sure it has the most updated firmware. Note that the firmware is the designed software that makes your item work. There are two ways you can update Linksys firmware: manually or automatically. We’ll cover both methods here.

Manually Updating the Router’s Firmware

1. Hardwire your router to a PC using an Ethernet cable.

Even if you have already set up your router’s Wi-Fi connection, do not use it to update the Linksys firmware. Wi-Fi is not strong enough to complete the update, and it can either cause severe damage to your device or break it. Always use a hardwired connection (just like you did when you completed the initial setup) by connecting the device to your computer with an Ethernet cable.

2. Find the model number and serial number for your router.

This information is printed on the back or side of your router, with other product details. Some models have different versions attached to a specific device; if you cannot find a “version-number” printed next to your model number, then this means that your router is a “Version 1.”

3. In your internet browser, visit https://www.linksys.com/us/support/.

Search for your item by its model number in the search bar, or click on the link “View Product List” (https://www.linksys.com/us/support/sitemap/) and find your router in the list of Linksys products. When you find your model number, click on the link. This will bring you to the support page dedicated to your particular router.

4. On the Linksys support page for your router, scroll down to the section “Downloads/Firmware.” Click on the link “Download Software.”

Follow the instructions on the “Download Software” page to install the latest version of your router’s firmware. The file will have a .bin, .img, or a .bix extension. Save the file to your computer.

5. In your internet browser, log into the router.

Type the router’s IP address, 192.168.1.1, in the address bar and press “Enter.” When the login prompt pops up, type in the router’s username and password. Use the default login information if you have not changed them yet.

6. From the router’s menu, select “Administration.” Under the “Administration” menu, click on “Firmware Upgrade.”

7. Under “Firmware Upgrade,” click on the button to search for the firmware file.

Depending on your router, this button may say either “Browse” or “Choose file.”

8. Find the firmware file and select “Open.”

After you locate the firmware file:

1. Click on it until it is highlighted.
2. On a Windows computer, click on the “Open” or “Open file” button.
3. On a MAC, select the “Choose” button.

9. Select the “Start Upgrade” or “Upgrade” button.

Do not do anything to your router, such as reset it, turn it off, or change any settings, while the new firmware file is uploading to the router. 

10. After the upgrade is complete, click “Continue.”

If you are using installation software, such as Smart Wi-Fi, it will automatically reboot your router. If you are using an internet browser, you’ll have to physically turn off the router (this is explained in step 11).

11. Turn the router off, then turn it back on.

Keep in mind this is not the same as a reset. Find the power button on the router. Press it to turn the router off, and then press it again to turn it back on. After the router powers on, the firmware installation is complete.

Automatically Updating the Router’s Firmware

You can program your Linksys Smart Wi-Fi router to check for firmware updates automatically. Using your Smart Wi-Fi account, you can make any changes to your router, such as adding devices to your network, change parental controls, change usernames and passwords, and update security settings.

1. Log-in to your Smart Wi-Fi account.

If you haven’t made a Smart Wi-Fi account, create one before you sign in. You can also sign in to your device using the IP address.

2. Once you are logged on to your Smart Wi-Fi account, select the “Connectivity” menu.

3. Click on the Basic tab. Under “Firmware Update,” make sure the box next to “Automatic” is checked.

The check box next to “Automatic” turns on the automatic updates. If you prefer to turn off this option, follow the same instructions, and uncheck the box.

The automatic update window in the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi program. Source 

How to Change the Linksys Router’s Security Settings

Change the Router’s Username and Password and the Wireless SSID Name and Password

After updating the router’s firmware:

1. Begin configuring your device by changing the passwords of all the default settings.
2. Start with your router’s username (also called the Userpass) and password.
3. Change the wireless network name (SSID) and password. Your wireless settings’ new name should be different from the username and password you choose for your login. It is ideal for users to write down their new usernames and passwords for the device and wireless settings as a precaution. Keep it in a safe and store it with other essential papers if necessary. If you forget this information, you can easily reference the list instead of having to reset your router.

There are four ways you can update your router’s username and password and your wireless settings. You can reach the menu through your internet browser, Linksys Connect, Linksys Smart Wi-Fi, or the operating system on your computer. Depending on the method you use, you can change the router’s default settings and the wireless default settings simultaneously.

How to Configure a Linksys Router with an Internet Browser

1. Log-in to your router.

Type the IP address in the address bar of your internet browser. Enter the default login information printed on the back of your router to log in.

2. From the router’s main menu, also called the Setup Menu, click on “Administration.”

3. Under “Administration,” select “Management.”

4. Under the “Management” tab, find the text boxes for changing the router password. Edit the default value with your password. Re-type the new password to confirm the changes. 

On Linksys routers, some may refer to the username as the Userpass. The default username and password should be altered as soon as possible to prevent unauthorized access to your router.

Each device has its requirements for creating usernames and passwords, but they should both include letters and numbers. Your new username and password should also be complicated for someone to guess. Write your unique username and password down and keep it in a safe place.

5. Re-type the password in the box below where you changed your password. Click “Save Settings.”

When you change your username and password, you’ll need to enter the new password twice. Once completed, select “Save Settings.” After you click “Save Settings,” the router’s name and password will be updated.

6. Return to the router’s main setup menu.

Immediately after changing the router’s username and password, update the default settings for your wireless connection. This involves changing the network name (or SSID), the password, and the security level to keep your internet connection safe from unauthorized use.

7. Find the Wireless tab at the top of the screen. Click on it.

8. Select “Basic Wireless Settings.” On this page, change the Configuration View to “Manual.”

9. On the “Basic Wireless Settings” page, scroll down until you see the Network Name’s text box (SSID). Change the default SSID name.

The default name is listed in the text box for Network Name (SSID). You can change this to your wireless network name. Make sure that the new name is something less generic and unique enough to identify it as yours. Write it down with your router information and keep it in a secure place.

10. Check off “Enabled” on the “SSID Broadcast” option so your wireless devices can pick it up.

If the SSID broadcast is off, then your wireless devices will not see your wireless internet connection.

11. Select the “Wireless Security” tab.

The Wireless Security tab is next to the Basic Wireless Settings tab. This is where you will change the wireless security strength and the password.

12. Under “Wireless Security,” change the security mode to WPA2 Personal.

WPA2 Personal is the most reliable security setting you can use on your router. 

13. Change the password.

The password may also be listed as “Passphrase,” “Pre-Shared Key,” or “WPA Shared Key.” Edit the default password in the text box to something that would be hard for someone else to guess.

14. Select “Save Settings.”

This saves the changes you made to your wireless security settings.

How to Configure a Linksys Router Using Smart Wi-Fi

Some Linksys wireless routers use the Smart Wi-Fi program for installation. To use this method, you have to create your Smart Wi-Fi account through Linksys. Visit the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi login page to create your account and configure your router.  

The Linksys Smart Wi-Fi program is also available on the Linksys app on both iOS and Android devices. Although we recommend completing the configuration steps on a computer that is hardwired to your device, you can download the app later from the App Store or Google Play to sign in to your account.

From the app, you can monitor your settings and internet usage from your mobile devices. Watch this Youtube tutorial for more information on the mobile app: Linksys Wireless Router Setup and Tutorial (Android or iPhone).

1. Set up your router’s hardware and hardwire the router to your PC.

2. Use an internet browser to sign in to your Smart Wi-Fi account (or create your account, if you haven’t done so already).

Visit https://linksyssmartwifi.com/ui/1.0.1.1786/dynamic/login.html to create your account. Under the “Sign In” button, select “Don’t have an account? Click here” to enter your name and email address to set up your Smart Wi-Fi account.

After signing up for your Cloud account, check your email for the verification link to complete the account setup. When you click on the verification link, a page confirming your account information will pop up. Click on “Click here to log in” to log in to your account.

The login page for the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi software. Step 3 (Source)

From here, you have two options. You can follow the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi program’s prompts to change your settings, or you can skip the Setup Wizard and change your settings manually. If you want to complete the configuration manually, select the “Manual Configuration” option. (This may also say, “I want to skip Setup and configure my router manually.”) Click Next.

3. After you sign in to your Linksys cloud account, follow the instructions to link your router to your account. Type in your router’s default password in the “Associate Router” text box. Click “OK.”

“Associate Router” may also be displayed as “Access Router.”

4. From the router’s navigation pane on the left-hand side, locate the “Router Settings” category. Select “Connectivity.”

Under the “Connectivity” submenu, check the box labeled “Install future router updates automatically.” The program will now scan for firmware updates automatically and install them for you. Click on the “Next” button.

5. The Smart Wizard will bring you to the next step, changing the wireless username and password.

If configuring your device manually, you can find this same screen by clicking on the “Wi-Fi Settings” submenu under the “Router Settings” category.

Click on the “Wireless” tab, where you can change the wireless username and password and other security settings. Click “Edit” to change your settings on your network(s) from the default values.

6. Change the username and password for your wireless connection.

If you have dual-band internet, the 5GHz bandwidth will add the suffix “_5GHz” to your new username so you can tell the difference between the bandwidths.

If you want to use the same name for both connections, click on “Give all my Wi-Fi bands the same name.” Change the default password and click “Next.”

On this page, you can also tweak the security settings. Ensure that the “Enabled” box is checked so that other devices can pick up the wireless signal. Also, change the “Security Mode” in the drop-down menu to “WPA2 Personal.” Click “Apply” to save your changes.

7. The program will prompt you to connect to the Internet.

8. Click “Next” to change the router’s default password.

In the text box next to “Current Password,” type in the default password listed on the back of your device. In the “New Password” text box, enter your updated router password. Re-type the new password in the box below. Some products may not require typing the default password and will only ask for your new one. 

The Linksys Smart Wi-Fi program may ask you if you want to display a hint to your password if you forget it. Type in a clue to your new password and click “Next.”  

If you are setting up your device manually, under “Router Settings” on the main menu, click on “Connectivity.” Under the “Basic” tab, the option to edit the router’s password is under the wireless settings.

9. Linksys Smart Wi-Fi will display your updated settings with a message confirming your setup is complete.

When the new credentials are on the screen, write them down and store them somewhere safe. Click “Next” to finish the installation.

How to Update Wireless Settings Using Your Computer’s OS

Once you log in to your device, you can change your wireless settings through your computer. Remember that you should still change your router’s login settings through an internet browser or configuration software.

Updating Wireless Settings on a Windows Computer

Right-click the Internet symbol. This is In the bottom right corner of your taskbar.

1. In the pop-up menu, select “Open Network and Internet Settings.”

In the new window, locate the section “Change Your Network Settings.” Under this section, click on the first link, “Change Adapter Options.”

1. Right-click on the Wi-Fi connection. In the pop-up menu, click on “Status.”
2. Select Wireless Properties. Under the Security tab, confirm/edit the security setting to “WPA2.”
3. Check the “Show Characters” box and change your wireless password. Click “Update” to save your changes.
4. On your wireless devices, log into your wireless connection with the new password.

Updating Wireless Settings on a MAC

1.Open the Finder app. In the top left, select the “Go” drop-down menu. Scroll down and click on the “Utilities” menu.

2. Double-click on “Keychain Access” to open the app.

Keychain Access is where all of your login information is stored.

3. Find the name of your wireless network and double click it.

If you can’t find it, click the “Name” category to sort the list alphabetically by the first letter.

4. In the new window, click on Attributes.

5. Select “Show Password.”

Enter your Apple administrator password when the prompt window appears. Click “Allow.”

6. Type in your new password and click Save Changes.

Connecting to the Internet

Once you have configured your router’s settings, it’s time to connect your devices to the wireless Internet. 

There are two ways to do this: 

• logging into the internet connection on your device or 
• using the WPS button.

Connecting to the Internet on Your Device

If you have finished changing your router’s login and wireless login information changes, then you can use your device to connect to the Internet.

1. Click on the wireless connection icon on your device.
   Depending on which device you are using, this step varies. On a PC, you can click on the wireless icon on the lower right-hand side of your desktop screen. On a mobile device, go to your settings to access the Wireless menu that displays all of the internet connections.
2. Find your network name (SSID) in the list of available networks.
   On a PC, after clicking on the wireless icon, select the menu that says, “Connect to available networks.” This phrasing may vary according to your device’s software, but it will say something similar to this.
   On a mobile device, locate the list of networks your device is picking up. Find your wireless SSID name on that list.

3. Click on your wireless SSID name and type in your wireless password.
4. Click “OK.” The SSID name should display that you are connected to the Internet.
   Test your connection by trying to open an internet browser and use the Internet.

Connecting to Your Router’s Internet Using the WPS Function

Only some Linksys routers have a WPS button. This connects your devices to your router’s Internet automatically.

The WPS button can only connect one device to the Internet at a time, so it can be tedious to use this method if you have several computers, tablets, printers, and gaming consoles to connect. However, it doesn’t require using the wireless (SSID) username and password to connect to the Internet, and it bypasses most of the manual configuration process steps.

During the configuration process, the installation software (such as Linksys Smart Wi-Fi or Linksys Connect) will prompt you to use the WPS button to connect to the Internet. Only use this method if both your router and the device you want to connect to the Internet have WPS capabilities. These devices include your PC, mobile devices, wireless printers, etc.

If only one or neither is WPS-enabled, then bypass this step and manually set up your wireless connection. See your user manual or the “How to Configure a Linksys Router with an Internet Browser” for the detailed steps on how to configure the router’s wireless (SSID) settings manually.

There are three ways to link your devices to the Internet using the WPS function:

• Pressing the WPS buttons on your router and the device
• Using the device’s WPS PIN
• Using the router’s WPS PIN

Depending on what information you have, use one of the following methods.

How to Use the WPS Buttons

1. Find the WPS buttons on both your router and the device you are connecting to.

These WPS buttons usually have an icon with two arrows forming a circle. Before connecting your device using the WPS function, make sure that you know where both buttons are.

2. Press the WPS button on your router.

3. Log in to your router’s setup menu using an internet browser.

Enter the default IP address. When the login window pops up, enter your router’s username and password. The login credentials are either the username and password you created for your device during the configuration process, or they will be the default values listed on the back of your router.

4. Wait two minutes, then proceed with activating the WPS button on the device you are trying to connect to the Internet.

After pressing the WPS button on your device, return to the internet browser and click on the arrow icon to the right to refresh the signal. After you press this icon, it should be connected to the Internet.

If prompted to do so, press “OK” to continue.

How to Use the WPS PIN

If your wireless device has a WPS PIN, use this method to connect it to your router’s Internet.

1. Using an internet browser, log in to your router’s setup menu.

2. Click on the “Wireless” tab. Under “Basic Wireless Settings,” select “Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).

Locate the second setup option that asks for the PIN of the client device.

3. Find the WPS pin on your device and enter it into the text box.

4. Click the “Register” button to connect the device to the Internet.

How to Use the Router’s WPS PIN

If your device doesn’t have a WPS PIN, but your router does, you can use the router’s WPS pin to connect your device to the Internet. Instead of using the setup menu in your internet browser, you will type your router’s WPS PIN into your device when it asks you for it.

1. Using an internet browser, log in to your router’s setup menu.

2. Click on the “Wireless” tab. Under “Basic Wireless Settings,” select “Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).

Locate the third setup option that displays the router’s WPS pin.

3. On your device, type in the router’s PIN.

After finding the router’s WPS PIN in your internet browser, return it to your device. When it asks for the router’s PIN, enter it into the field. The router’s WPS PIN is also listed behind the unit’s box with the rest of the default information.

Select “OK” or “Enter” to connect your device to the Internet.

Here are some helpful Youtube tutorials on the configuration steps:

How to Setup Linksys Router Without CD

Another option for configuring your device is to use Linksys Connect. This is the software program that comes with the installation CD. It guides you to complete the setup and configuration process, including changing the default usernames and passwords for a more secure connection.

If you don’t have the CD, you can download this software from the Linksys support page. The Linksys Connect software is only available on individual Linksys Wi-Fi routers. If you don’t have the installation CD, check your user manual to see if your router is compatible with this software.

Unlike the other methods you can use to configure your device, the router’s username/password combination is the same as the wireless username/password in Linksys Connect.

How to Configure a Linksys Router Using Linksys Connect

1. Connect the router to your PC with an Ethernet cable. Download the Linksys Connect program from the Linksys Support page and open it.

Visit https://www.linksys.com/us/support/. Search for your router’s model number. Scroll down to the “Downloads/Firmware” section. Click on the “Download Software” button. Agree to the licensing terms and save Linksys Connect to your computer’s desktop; once the program has finished installing, double-click on the Linksys Connect icon to open it.

2. When the program starts running, select “Set Up Your Linksys Router.”

This will start the installation process. After browsing through the terms, click Agree to the licensing terms and click “Next.” Follow the instructions on the screen to move on to the installation on your device.

3. On the next page, the Linksys Connect program will create a random wireless username and password for you.

Change the username and password to something distinctive to you and your connection.

Use a proper combination of letters and numbers for both the username and password to make your connection more secure. Click “Next.”

If you have already installed your device with Linksys Connect, you can still go back into your settings and change the wireless username and password.

Find the Linksys Router program on your computer and open it. From the Linksys Connect main menu, click on “Router Settings.” Under “Personalize,” click “Change” to edit the default wireless username and password.

On this page, the program should identify the wireless encryption settings. Linksys Connect only has two options for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA): WPA and WPA2. If the application hasn’t done it for you already, change this setting to WPA2. While both encryption settings are secure, WPA2 is the safer of the two.

4. Linksys Connect uses your router’s connection to the computer to identify your internet connection type. Click “Next.”

5. The next page confirms that your device is connected to the Internet. Select “OK” to finish the configuration process.

Once your Linksys router is finished with the setup process, the program will alert you that your device is connected to the Internet. Once you click “OK,” the Linksys Connect software will bring you to the program’s main menu.

After the setup is complete, use the new wireless username and password to connect your devices to the Internet.

This Youtube video details how to install a Linksys router without a CD

With so many methods to complete the installation of your Linksys device, you can connect to the Internet based on your comfort level in completing the steps. If you know what settings you want to use, we recommend configuring the product manually through an internet browser.

However, if you aren’t sure what settings would be best for your device, using an installation program such as Linksys Connect or Smart Wi-Fi can complete most of these steps for you. Either way, Linksys routers are designed to streamline the installation process to get connected to the Internet faster.

Linksys Router FAQ

Have more questions? We’ve included the most commonly asked questions about the Linksys router below. Here you can find necessary information about logging in and configuring your Linksys router.

How to Reset Linksys Router Password?

If you can’t remember the updated username and password to your device, you’ll need to perform a factory reset to restore the default login information. Using a small pin or paperclip, hold down the reset button until the lights turn off. Once you release the reset button, the device will restart. All of your previous settings will be deleted, so you’ll have to configure the product again.

If this doesn’t work, try the 30/30/30 method, a more aggressive type of reset. If your device doesn’t have a reset button, you can use the router’s software to restore the factory default values. From the router’s main menu, click on “Administration.” Under “Factory and Defaults,” select “Restore Factory Defaults.” The device will restart.

After the device restarts, use the default values to log in to the device. The username is usually blank, and the password is usually “admin,” but this can vary between models. From the router’s main menu, change all of your settings again, including the router’s username and password.

See our section “How to Reset Linksys Router” for more detailed information on resetting your Linksys Router Password.

How to Change Linksys Router Name?

The default login information is usually listed on the back of your device. Type in the router’s IP address into the address bar on your Internet browser and enter the default login values. 

Click on “Administration” from the main menu. Select “Management.” On this page, replace the default username and password with your username and password. Click “Save Settings” to update the device name and password.

See the section “How to Login to a Linksys Router” for more detailed instructions.  

How to Secure Linksys Router?

Securing a device is the same thing as configuring a router. There are three main changes you should make when you log in to your router for the first time:

• Change the router’s username and password.
• Change the network name (SSID) and password.
• Change your security settings to WPA2 Personal.

Making these changes keeps others from accessing your internet connection without permission and using your bandwidth, using your network to do something illegal, accessing your personal information, and infecting your network with a virus.

See “How to Configure Linksys Router” for multiple ways to secure your Linksys Router. 

What is the Default Password For Linksys Router?

All Linksys routers come with default login information to use during the initial setup. On most Linksys routers, the default password is “admin.” However, some models may have other default credentials. See “How to Login to a Linksys Router” for more specific instructions.

Where is the WPS Button On Linksys Router?

The WPS button is located on either the back or the front of your Linksys router. It has an icon that resembles two arrows forming a circle. Only some Linksys router models have the WPS button, so not every device will have it. Your user manual will tell you if your product is WPS-enabled.

How to Bypass Linksys Router Password?

If you have forgotten or misplaced your Linksys router’s password, you will not be able to log in to the device to make any changes. You can bypass your current password by performing a factory reset on your product to return it to the default username/password combination. Unfortunately, you will lose all your saved settings in the device, so you will have to re-configure it again.

See “How to Reset Linksys Router” in this article for detailed steps on how to perform a factory reset.