How to Change Wi-Fi Name
With so many Wi-Fi networks everywhere, it’s not uncommon to see two networks with identical names right next to each other. Sometimes, it doesn’t even end with identical Wi-Fi network names because many users don’t know how to change Wi-Fi Name.
In this article, we explain how to change Wi-Fi name regardless of the brand of your Wi-Fi router.
Jump to...
How to Change Your Wi-Fi Name
To change the name of your Wi-Fi network (also known as SSID, or Service Set Identifier), you need to enter your router’s admin page.
Step 1
Enter your router’s IP address into your favorite web browser. Learn How to Find Your Router’s IP Address below.
Step 2
Log in as the administrator.
Step 3
Go to settings and look for an option titled “Wi-Fi name” or “Wi-Fi SSID”.
Step 4
Enter your new Wi-Fi SSID.
Analyze your Wi-Fi on Android
Inspect, compare, survey, and analyze WiFi networks with NetSpot. Optimize your WiFi network for maximum performance.
How to Find Your Router’s IP Address on All Platforms
To manage your network settings or update your WiFi password, you first need to find your router’s IP address. This address serves as a gateway to your router's admin panel.
While common addresses like 192.168.1.1 or 10.0.0.1 are the usual suspects, every brand has its own favorite starting point. Here is how to track yours down, no matter what device you're using.
How to Find Router’s IP Address on Windows
If you're using a Windows computer, the fastest way to find your router's IP address is using the command line. It may look a bit complicated, but it's actually very simple:
Open the command prompt and enter ipconfig. In the results, look for the line "Default Gateway", which indicates the router's IP address.
How to Find Router’s IP Address on Mac
Finding your router's IP address on a Mac is just a couple of clicks away. Go to System Settings, select Network, and click your Wi-Fi connection. In the window that pops up, click the Details button — the details you need will be listed right next to the "Router" line.
How to Find Router’s IP Address on Smartphones
Finding your router’s IP address on a smartphone is just as easy as on a computer. While the menus look a bit different depending on your phone, the steps are generally the same:
Just head into your Wi-Fi settings and tap on the network you’re currently using. Look for a section labeled "Router" or "Gateway" — that’s where you’ll find the IP address. Once you have it, simply type those numbers into your mobile browser to jump straight into your router’s settings.
Other options to log into your router
If you find remembering long strings of numbers a bit of a headache, you’re in luck. Many modern routers let you skip the IP address entirely by using a "friendly URL" — a simple web address that’s much easier to type and remember.
Think of these as shortcuts created by manufacturers to get you into your settings faster. Here are the most common ones:
- Netgear: Try heading to http://routerlogin.net or http://routerlogin.com. These URLs direct you to the login page, where you can enter your administrative credentials.
- TP-Link: You can usually find your settings at http://tplinkwifi.net or http://tplinklogin.net. Entering this into a browser brings up the login interface for the router's admin panel.
- Linksys: Use http://myrouter.local as the URL for accessing their settings. This URL leads to the Linksys interface, where you can manage your network settings.
Just make sure you’re already connected to your Wi-Fi when you type these into your browser. If they don’t work right away, a quick peek at the sticker on the bottom of your router or the manual will usually reveal the specific link for your model.
It's important to refer to your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for the specific URL associated with your model, as the URL varies by brand and sometimes by the model of the router.
What Is SSID?
Wi-Fi SSID stands for Service Set Identifier, and it is a unique identifier that makes it easier for your electronic devices to identify and connect to your Wi-Fi network. The SSID is sometimes referred to simply as "Wi-Fi name" because that's what it essentially is.
How to Find Your SSID
Unless you live in the middle of nowhere, there are most likely multiple other SSIDs broadcasted in your area. To find the SSID assigned to your Wi-Fi network, you can do the following:
- Check the back or bottom of your router. The default SSID is often printed on a label attached to the router itself. This method won’t help you if you’ve changed the default SSID in the past.
- Go to your router settings using a web browser or a smartphone companion app and navigate to the wireless settings page. The current SSID should be listed there.
- If one of your electronic devices is connected to your Wi-Fi network, then you should be able to find your SSID in settings. On Windows, you need to open the Settings app and navigate to the Network & internet tab. On Mac, launch the System Settings app and go to Wi-Fi.
What Are the Risks of Using a Default Wi-Fi SSID?
Using the default Wi-Fi SSID created by your router comes with several risks:
- Default SSIDs make it easier for attackers to identify which router you're using, allowing them to gain access to the network by exploiting known unpatched vulnerabilities.
- Using common SSIDs can lead to connectivity issues when multiple networks with the same SSID are in range. This is because devices may automatically attempt to connect to the wrong network.
- Because default Wi-Fi names are hardly ever pretty and descriptive, they can be quite confusing for users, especially if several networks with default names are available in the same area.
To avoid these and other risks, we recommend you learn how to change the name of your Wi-Fi network and do so as soon as you can. Most routers make SSID Wi-Fi network changes very simple, so there's nothing to be afraid of. Just know that you will have to reconnect all your devices to the new network name after changing its name.
Characteristics of Good Wi-Fi Names
Many people believe that Wi-Fi names don’t matter much, which explains why there are so many funny Wi-Fi names, such as “hack me” or “WillUmarryMe?” or “Top secret network” or “Drop it like its Hotspot.” Yes, Wi-Fi SSIDs are certainly not as important as Wi-Fi passwords, but a good Wi-Fi name can still make a huge difference, and here’s how to pick one:
Tip 1Don’t give away any personal information: Perhaps you live next to someone whose Wi-Fi network is named after their address or family name. Wi-Fi names with personal information may be readily identifiable, but they make it very easy to execute targeted attacks.
One doesn’t need to be particularly tech-savvy to use a software application downloaded from the internet to make someone’s internet connection useless. Conflicts with neighbors are unpleasant as they are, so don’t make it easy for someone to target your Wi-Fi network by choosing a Wi-Fi SSID that contains personal information about you.
Tip 2Don’t pretend to be a public hotspot: For some reason, people often name their Wi-Fi networks after popular public hotspots, such as “McDonald’s Wi-Fi” or “T-Mobile Hotspot”. It’s true that a fake name like this would certainly make it difficult for your neighbors to figure out which Wi-Fi networks is yours, but it would also almost certainly lead to lower download and upload speeds.
It’s a safe bet that if your Wi-Fi signal reaches the street or a neighbor's apartment, someone will eventually try to hop on for free internet.
The problem isn't just about them using your data; it’s that every time someone tries to connect, your router has to stop what it's doing to respond. This uses up valuable processing power, which can leave your own connection feeling sluggish or less responsive when you’re trying to work or stream.
Tip 3When choosing a name for your network, don't be afraid to get creative, but always maintain common sense. There are plenty of Wi-Fi name generators online that provide funny options with a single click, as well as huge lists of funny Wi-Fi network names for inspiration.
However, remember your limits. In 2016, a prankster who named his network "Mobile Detonation Device" led to a Qantas flight in Melbourne being delayed until the aircraft was fully inspected. To avoid becoming the subject of similar news, it's best to avoid provocation. Ultimately, the best names are those you come up with yourself, striking a balance between humor and safety.
Tip 4When you have multiple networks (for example, a main and guest network, or networks on different frequencies), it's best to give each one a unique name.
Your SSID is like a store sign: it helps devices understand where they're connecting. If you name all your networks the same, devices will get confused. As a result, one network might be overloaded with requests, while another sits idle. Different names will help you and your guests always choose the fastest connection.
Conclusion
Your Wi-Fi name and password are about more than just a quick setup — they’re key to keeping your digital life running smoothly and securely.
Now that you know how to jump into your settings and make these changes, take a moment to double-check that your network follows these simple guidelines. A few small tweaks today can save you from a lot of connectivity headaches (and uninvited guests) tomorrow.
SO, WE RECOMMEND
NetSpot
Wi-Fi Site Surveys, Analysis, Troubleshooting runs on a MacBook (macOS 11+) or any laptop (Windows 7/8/10/11) with a standard 802.11be/ax/ac/n/g/a/b wireless network adapter. Read more about the 802.11be support here.
How to Change Wi-Fi Name FAQs
Is SSID the same as Wi-Fi name?
Yes, SSID (Service Set IDentifier) is the technical term for what most Wi-Fi users refer to simply as "Wi-Fi name".
Is the SSID the same as the Wi-Fi password?
No, the SSID is the name of a Wi-Fi network — not the password.
Should I rename my Wi-Fi network?
We recommend you change your Wi-Fi name (the SSID of your Wi-Fi network) only if you have good reason to do so because all connected devices will become disconnected. For example, you should change your Wi-Fi name if you actually do want to disconnect all connected devices for security reasons.
Can I change the name of my Wi-Fi network?
To change the name of your Wi-Fi network, you need to access your router settings by logging in to its web-based admin interface or downloading its companion app. Then, look for an option called Wi-Fi SSID — that's the name of your Wi-Fi network.
How do I change my Wi-Fi network name?
Here’s how to change Wi-Fi name: First, you need to access your router’s admin interface, which you can do by entering a specific IP address (typically printed on a sticker found on the bottom of the router). There, look for wireless options and go through them until you find one that lets you change your Wi-Fi network name. Replace the existing Wi-Fi network name with a new one and click Save.
How do I change my router name and password?
To change your router name and password, you need to know the current name and password (often admin/admin or admin/password). Log in to your router’s admin panel using the current name and password and look for security settings. There should be an option to change the current name and password to something else.
Why did my Wi-Fi name change?
If your Wi-Fi name has reverted back to what it was when you first installed the router, it could be that the router restarted itself due to a power outage or firmware upgrade. But if the name has changed to something funny or vulgar, then you may be dealing with a hacker, and you should change your router name and password as soon as possible.
How do I change my Wi-Fi name and password on my phone?
Many modern routers can be remotely administered using a smartphone app. Such apps allow users to monitor network usage, create guest networks, and, of course, change their Wi-Fi name and password. Older routers can usually be administered only from a desktop computer or laptop that’s connected directly with an Ethernet cable.
Should I change Wi-Fi name?
There’s no reason to change your Wi-Fi name on a regular basis, but there are many situations when coming up with a new name for your network is a good idea, such as when the current name is inappropriate, or when you know that someone is trying to steal your personal information.
Get NetSpot for Free
Wi-Fi Site Surveys, Analysis, Troubleshooting runs on a MacBook (macOS 11+) or any laptop (Windows 7/8/10/11) with a standard 802.11be/ax/ac/n/g/a/b wireless network adapter. Read more about the 802.11be support here.
Wi-Fi name like “McDonald’s Wi-Fi” leads to lower download and upload speeds