Knowing how to log in to your TP-Link router is essential for maintaining a safe internet connection. By logging in to the router's menu, you can monitor your internet usage, change your security settings, and reset your device.
If you have a TP-Link router, completing these steps is easier than you think. The menu's interface is well-organized and easy to navigate. This article will teach you how to log in to your TP-Link router and update your settings accordingly.
How to Login to a TP-Link Router
Unlike most routers, signing into the TP-Link router does not require an internet connection. However, you do have to connect your router to a device.
You can sign in to your router through a wired connection or a wireless connection. A wired connection requires connecting your router to a computer or laptop with an Ethernet cable.
You can also use a mobile device, such as a phone or a tablet, to wirelessly log in to your router.
How to Set Up a TP-Link Router
For the initial setup and configuration steps, we highly recommend using a wired connection.
1. For a wired connection, use an Ethernet cable to connect your router and your computer.
Plug the Ethernet cable into a yellow port on the back of the router. Use the other end to plug into an Ethernet port on your computer.
2. Plug into an outlet close to where you will install it.
3. Turn on the router.
4. Turn on your computer.
How to Set Up the TP-Link Router's Wireless Connection
1. Find the SSID network name (also known as the wireless network name) and its password printed on the back of your router.
2. On your device, open the Wi-Fi menu in your settings.
3. Find the SSID name in the list of available networks.
4. Click on it and enter the SSID password.
An example list of wireless connections, with the TP-Link connection highlighted. (Source)
Keep in mind that some routers may require a wired connection. You may encounter some connection issues on a wireless device. Use a wired connection if you can't log in to your router on your mobile device.
Not sure how to log in on your device? This article breaks down how to log in to your router for multiple operating systems, such as Windows 10, iOS, and Android.
What to Know When Logging into the TP-Link Router
1. Use an internet browser to sign in to your router.
TP-Link supports almost all web browsers on Windows and Apple devices.
2. Type in the default access address.
This web address is listed on the back of your router. For most TP-Link routers, it is http://tplinkwifi.net. You can also use the default IP listed with the username and password. If you have a TP-Link cable modem router, enter http://tplinkmodem.net in the address bar.
The back label of a router, with the IP address, router username, and router password highlighted. (Source)
The back label of a router, with the default IP address http://tplinkwifi.net/ listed with the username and password. (Source)
3. Enter the router's username "admin" and password "admin" on the login page.
The username and password are all lowercase letters, and they are case-sensitive.
The login page for routers. (Source)
Depending on your model, your login page may look like this. (Source)
4. The router's main menu appears when you log in successfully.
Depending on your model, the interface may look different. Some devices offer a guided "Quick Setup" process for configuring your router. Read through the instructions to modify your router's settings.
The “Quick Setup” menu is available on some routers. (Source)
If your router doesn't have the Quick Setup feature, the main menu will display. From here, you can update your router's firmware and change your settings, such as your usernames and passwords.
What If I Can't Log in to My TP-Link Router?
The most common explanation for login issues is entering your username/password combination wrong. This is the most common issue that will keep you from successfully logging in. If the default username and password aren't working during the initial login, try the following troubleshooting tasks.
1. Check your device to make sure the Ethernet cords are connected correctly.
Test your power cord and your Ethernet cords to make sure they are plugged in securely. Each Ethernet port has a corresponding LED light on the front of the router. If the matching LAN/Ethernet light is not on, the Ethernet cable is not connected correctly.
Unplug the cable and reconnect it. If this doesn't work, unplug the Ethernet cord from both the router and the computer. Use different Ethernet ports on both devices until the appropriate LAN/Ethernet light turns on.
The Ethernet ports on the router, and the matching indicator lights on the front of the router. (Source)
2. Disconnect the modem from the router. Connect the router only to your computer.
This creates a simpler connection, and it may resolve the issue. Check to make sure the LAN/Ethernet light is on before attempting to log in again.
3. Clear the cache on your internet browser. If this doesn't work, try logging in on a different web browser.
If you've cleared the cache and you can't log in from any web browsers, restart the computer.
4. Check the default IP gateway.
Search for the default gateway on your computer. Make sure it matches the router's IP address; this will either be 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. If the IP address listed on your computer doesn't match one of TP-Link's IP addresses, use the IP address on your computer to sign in to the router (instead of http://tplinkwifi.net.)
How to find the IP address on a Windows computer:
In the search bar, enter "cmd." Click on the Command Prompt app to open it. Type in "IPCONFIG" and press "Enter." In the dialog box, search for your router's IP address.
For a wired connection, look for the "IPv4" address under "LAN Connection." For a wireless connection, look for the "IPv4" address under "Wireless Network Connection."
Finding the IPv4 address in the Command prompt. (Source)
How to Find the IP Address on a MAC computer:
In the top corner of the screen, click the Apple icon. Choose "System Preferences" from the dropdown menu.
Under "System Preferences," select the "Network" icon. For a wired connection, click on the "Ethernet" field in the left-hand pane. For a wireless connection, click on the "Wi-Fi" field. The IP address under the "Status" section.
The Network window on an Apple computer. (Source)
5. Turn off any firewall or antivirus programs.
Turn firewalls and virus protections off temporarily. Once you have signed in and configured the settings, turn them back on.
6. Try to sign in from a different computer.
If you still can't sign in, unplug the Ethernet cable from the computer and plug that end into a different device. Open a web browser on the new computer and try to log in to your router.
7. Reset your router and sign in again.
We will detail the steps to reset your router in the next section.
8. If all these options fail, call the customer support line.
How to Reset Your TP-Link Router
Resetting your router is a simple fix to most minor issues. If your internet slows down, you can't log in, or notice any other mechanical problems with the TP-Link, performing a reset will usually solve the issue. A reset will return the device to factory settings. If you have already configured your router, you can create a backup file to restore your settings.
There are two methods to complete a reset on your device: through the main menu or by pressing the reset button behind the router device.
The Reset Button on the back of a router. (Source)
Diagram of the back of a router. (Source)
How to Create a Backup File
Before performing a reset, make a backup file. This will prevent the loss of your settings, such as the router's username and password and the SSID network name and password.
1. Log in.
2. At the top of the page, click the "Advanced" tab.
3. On the left panel, click on "System Tools."
4. In the "System Tools" dropdown menu, select "Backup and Restore."
5 On the next screen, click the option for "Backup."
6. The file will download to your computer.
Resetting the Router Through the Main Menu
1. Log in.
2. Click on the "System Tools" menu.
3. Under the "System Tools" menu, click on "Factory Defaults."
4. Click on "Restore" to begin the reset.
The Reset Button on the back of a TP-Link router. (Source)
Resetting the Router With the Reset Button
1. Find the reset button on the back of the router.
2. Press down the reset button for 10 seconds.
Do not turn the device off before performing the reset. Use a small, thin tool, such as the end of a paperclip, to press the button.
3. Release the reset button.
Once the lights start flashing slowly, release the button.
4. The unit will reset itself. The process is complete when the unit turns off and turns back on.
5. Login with the default information listed on the back of your router.
Restoring the TP-Link Router's Settings After Reset
Now that you have reset your router, you can upload your backup file to save your settings properly.
1. Log into your device's main menu.
2. Click on the "Advanced" tab. On the left panel, click on "System Tools."
3. In the "System Tools" dropdown menu, select "Backup and Restore."
4. On the next screen, under "Restore," click "Browse."
5. Find the backup file and open it.
6. When the file appears in the "Browse" text box, click "Restore."
7. Click "Yes" to confirm the upload of the backup file.
8. The restore will begin. Don't restart or change any settings during this process.
9. Log back into your router to make sure the restore was successful.
How to Configure the TP-Link Router
When you have successfully signed in to your router, you'll need to change your security settings. Completing some basic configurations – such as updating the router's firmware, changing the router username and password, and changing the SSID network username and password – will make your internet connection much safer for personal use.
Different models will have different menu options. There are two main web interfaces for the TP-Link: a blue interface and a green interface. We will describe how to configure your router for each design here.
If you own an older model, your main menu will look something like this. This is the green interface. (Source)
Your main menu may look like this. Some newer models use a blue interface. (Source)
Configuring the Router (Blue Interface) - Updating the TL-Link Router's Firmware
There are two ways to update the router's firmware. You can check for upgrades in the router's menu, or you can download the firmware to your computer and upload it manually. When updating firmware, always use a hardwire connection.
How to Check for Upgrades in the TL-Link Router's Menu
1. Log in.
2. Under the "Advanced" tab, click on "System Tools" in the left-hand navigation pane.
3. Click on "Firmware Upgrade."
The current firmware version is listed on this page.
4. Under the "Online Upgrade" section, click "Check for Upgrade."
If an update is available, the menu will prompt you to download it to your router.
An example of the current firmware version under the “Firmware Upgrade” menu. (Source)
How to Update the TP-Link Router's Firmware Manually
1. Check the back of your device for your router model's version number.
This is located under the UPC with the model number.
Where you can find the version number of your router’s model. (Source)
2. Visit https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/. Scroll down and click on the "Download Center" page.
The TP-Link Support Page. Click on the "Download Center" option.
3. Search for your router's model number in the search bar.
Check the "Download Center" page on the website. Search for your router's model in the "Model/Number" search bar. (screenshot by author)
4. Click on your router's model in the search results.
5. On the product page, click on "Firmware."
Enter the hardware version (the version number of your model) in the dropdown box.
Check the product page where you can download the latest versions of firmware. (Source)
6. Find the firmware file listed on the page.
Check to see if the firmware files listed match the firmware on your router. If the file name matches the firmware on your router, you don't have to do anything.
If the firmware file is different, click on the file to download it to your computer. It will download in a .zip file.
- Find the .zip file on your computer and unzip it.
- Log in, then click on the "Advanced" tab. Select the "System Tools" dropdown menu on the left-hand side.
- In the dropdown menu, click on "Firmware Upgrade."
- In the "Manual Upgrade" section, click on Browse.
- Find the unzipped firmware file on your computer. Click on it to highlight it. Click "Open."
- When the file is listed in the "Browse" file box, click "Upgrade."
Changing the Router's Username and Password
Complete the firmware upgrade before changing any settings. The first configuration you should make is changing the router's username and password.
1. Log in.
2. Select the "Advanced" tab at the top of the screen.
3. Click on the "System Tools" dropdown menu on the left panel.
4. Under the "System Tools" dropdown menu, click on "Administration."
5. Locate the "Account Management" section.
6. Type the default username (admin) in the "Old Username" field.
7. Enter your updated username in the "New Username" field.
8. Enter the updated password in the "New Password" field.
This should be something that would be hard for someone else to guess. It will keep someone from hacking into your router.
9. Type the new password again in the "Confirm New Password" field.
10. Click "Save" to keep your changes.
11. Under the "Password Recovery" section, click the checkbox to enable the Password Recovery option.
If you ever forget the password, you can recover it if you activate this feature.
12. Click "Save."
The Account Management screen where you can change your router’s username and password. (Source)
Changing the SSID Network Name and Password
After updating the username and password, change the SSID network name and password.
1. Log in.
2. Click on the "Basic" tab at the top of the screen.
3. Click on the "Wireless" menu option in the left navigation pane.
4. Change the "Wireless Network Name (SSID).
The new wireless network name should be something you can remember, and it should be unique to your connection.
5. Change the wireless password.
For your new password, include a mixture of letters, numbers, and special characters. Someone should not be able to guess your new password. It should be so difficult that you have to write it down yourself.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each bandwidth.
If you have dual bandwidth, you will see the option to change the SSID name and password for both the 2.4GHz and the 5GHz connections. The passwords can be the same. The network names can be similar but different enough to tell them apart.
7. Click "Save" to save your changes.
Configuring the Router (Green Interface) - Updating the Router's Firmware
Most devices come with updated firmware. If you have an older model and notice that it is not performing at its best, you should check to see if the firmware has been upgraded. If you have a router with a green interface, the firmware upgrade process is a little different. Unlike other TP-Link routers, you can only upload the firmware file from your computer.
How to Update the Router's Firmware Manually
1. Log in and click on the "System Tools" dropdown menu.
2. In the options in the dropdown menu, click on "Firmware Upgrade."
3. The current firmware version is listed above the router's model and version information on this page.
Take note of both pieces of information.
Under “Firmware Upgrade,” both the current firmware version and the hardware version are listed. (Source)
4. Visit https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/. Click on "Download Center."
5. Search for your model number. Click on the model in the search results.
6. In the "Hardware Version" dropdown menu, select the version number of your router's model.
7. Check the available firmware files listed on the page.
If the firmware is different from the firmware listed, then download the file to your computer. Click on the firmware file to start the download.
- Unzip the file on your computer.
- Return to the "Firmware Upgrade" page in the router's menu.
- Click "Browse." Find the unzipped firmware file on your computer.
- Click "Open." The file should be listed on the page next to the "Browse" button.
- Click "Upgrade." Confirm the download by clicking "OK."
- The firmware upload will begin. As soon as it is complete, it will log you out of the menu.
8. Log back into the menu. Under "Status," check the "Firmware Version" to see if the upload was successful.
The Firmware Version matches the file downloaded from the Support site. (https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/688/)
Changing the Router's Username and Password
1. Log in.
2. On the main menu, click on the "System Tools" dropdown menu on the screen's left-hand side.
3. In the "System Tools" dropdown menu, select the option "Password."
4. Type the default username (admin) in the "Old User Name" text box.
5. Type the default password (admin) in the "Old Password" text box.
6. Choose a new username and type it into the "New User Name" text box.
Try to make this name specific to you and your connection.
7. Choose a new password. Enter the new phrase into the "New Password" text box.
8. Type the new password in the "Confirm New Password" text box.
9. Click "Save."
The Password page to change your username and password. This is under the “System Tools: Password” menu option. (Source)
Changing the SSID Network Name and Password
1. Log in.
2. Click on the "Wireless" menu in the left menu pane.
3. In the "Wireless" dropdown menu, click on "Wireless Settings."
4. Change the "Wireless Network Name."
5. Click "Save."
6. In the left-hand navigation pane, under the "Wireless" dropdown menu, click on the "Wireless Security" option.
7. Select "WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK" as the security option.
Choose the WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK option under the Wireless Security menu. (https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/399/)
8. Enter your new wireless password in the "PSK Password" field.
The new password should be a difficult phrase that contains numbers, letters, and special characters.
9. Click "Save."
10. Click "Reboot" to restart the router.
The changes to the wireless settings will take effect after the reboot.
If you don't receive a prompt to reboot the router, click on "System Tools" on the left navigation pane. In the dropdown menu, click on "Reboot."
Confirming the reboot after changing the wireless settings. (Source)
Manually rebooting the router after changing the wireless settings. (Source)
If you have a TP-Link router for your home or business internet, knowing some necessary steps on how to change settings and troubleshoot is essential to keeping a secure connection.
As long as you can log into your router, update the firmware, and change the usernames and passwords from the default settings, you can usually avoid a phone call to customer support. You can easily bypass minor issues, which will keep you connected.
TP-Link Router FAQ
If you have a TP-Link router, sometimes getting started is the hardest part. Below are some basic, frequently asked questions about logging in, resetting your device, and changing your security settings for easy reference.
How Do I Find My TP-Link Router Username and Password?
Every router lists its default username and password combination on the back of the unit. If you can't find this information, TP-Link routers use "admin"/" admin" as their default username and password.
How Do I Change My TP-Link Router Password?
Log in with the default username and password. (If you have already changed these credentials, then use the updated values.) Depending on your router model, you may have to navigate the menu differently.
If your menu has a blue interface, click on the "Advanced" tab at the screen's top. Click on "System Tools." Under this dropdown menu, click on "Administration." In the "Account Management" section, you can change your username and password.
If your menu has a green interface, the process is a little more straightforward. As soon as you log in, click on "System Tools" on the left navigation pane. In the dropdown menu, click on "Password." Here, you can change the router's username and password.
What Will Happen if I Reset My TP-Link Router?
If you have issues with your router or can't remember your login information – you will have to reset your router. The reset will revert the device to its factory settings. Any changes you made prior will be erased. Once you finish the reset, log back in with the default username and password and reconfigure your router.
