With a variety of download speeds available, Windstream is highly ranked among the best DSL services. The design and interface of a Windstream router make it easy to change your settings, but many users do not know how to access it.
It is important to know how to know your router, like the back of your hand, because logging into your router is the first step to securing your router. This article will show you step-by-step to log into your Windstream router and change necessary settings for a more secure networking experience.
How Do I Log Into My Windstream Router?
Once you set up your equipment, follow these instructions to log into your router:
1. Connect the router to a laptop or PC.
2. Plug an Ethernet cable into the back of the router. Insert the other end of the cable into the Ethernet port on your computer.
3. Open an internet browser, such as Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari.
When you open the address bar, some routers will guide you through the rest of the setup process. If this happens, follow the prompts to finish installing your router.
A picture of a Windstream router. (Source)
If you don't see the automatic setup page, continue to the next step:
4. Enter the router's default IP address in the address bar.
Most Windstream routers use http://192.168.254.254 as the default IP. However, some models may use a different one. Check the sticker on the side of your router for the exact default IP address.
5. A login screen will appear. Enter your router's admin username and password.
The login screen for a Windstream router. Keep in mind yours may look different than this. (Source)
Note: list of usernames and passwords:
USERNAME | PASSWORD |
|---|---|
admin | password |
admin | (blank) |
Admin | Admin |
(blank) | (blank) |
admin | |
admin | telus |
admin | randomly generated |
admin | printed on router |
admin | 'randomly generated' |
admin | found on router label |
admin | serial number of device |
admin | printed on bottom of router |
admin | printed on the label located on the bottom of the |
n/a | (blank) |
admin | (label on the bottom of the device) |
admin | Printed on Routers Label |
found on router label | found on router label |
admin | printed on router label |
admin | (sticker on the back of the gateway) |
admin | n/a |
Check the side label for the exact login information for your equipment.
6. Click "Log In."
How to Reset a Windstream Router
Knowing how to reboot or reset your Windstream router is essential because it may help you resolve issues, avoiding lengthy and costly service calls. Rebooting your router means turning it off and turning it back on. It is also known as a Power Cycle.
A reset is slightly different: it returns the router to its default settings or the information printed on the router's box. A reset is a preferred method of fixing problems associated with logging into the router.
Rebooting Your Windstream Router
To reboot your router, follow these steps:
1. Press the power button to turn the router off.
2. Leave the router turned off for about 30 seconds.
3. Press the power button again to turn the router back on.
4. Wait until the router's indication lights turn on and stop blinking.
5. Check your internet service or log into your router to see if the issue has been resolved.
You can also reboot the router if you are already logged in.
Take these steps to reboot your router from the menu:
1. Log in to the router.
2. Click on the "Advanced Setup" menu.
If you receive a prompt to continue to the "Advanced Setup" menu, click "Yes, I am an advanced user."
The reboot screen for a Windstream Actiontec T3200 router. (Source)
3. Select "Reboot."
This is usually listed on the left side of the screen.
4. Click the "Reboot" button to begin the process.
The Power Cycle is complete when the router turns off and turns back on.
5. Check your internet connection to see if the reboot worked.
Resetting Your Windstream Router
A reset will return the router to its default settings – or the settings that the device came with when it was brand new. These default settings are conveniently listed on the side of the router. Resetting your device is ideal for those experiencing login issues because they forgot a password.
To reset your Windstream router:
1. Find the reset button on your router.
The reset button is usually on the back of the router, next to the A/C power cord. It may be a typical button that you press, but reset buttons are located inside a small hole most of the time.
2. Find something small and thin to insert in the reset hole to press the button, such as a paperclip or a ballpoint pen.
3. Hold down the reset button for 3-15 seconds, depending on the router model.
A diagram of the back of a Windstream router that shows where the reset button is located. (Source)
4. As the router resets itself, the indicator lights will flash before the router turns off.
5. When the lights come back on, the reset is complete. The router's settings are replaced with their default values.
You can also reset your unit when you are logged into the router.
Here are the steps to reset your router from its menu:
1. Make sure you are logged into your router.
2. From the main menu, click on the "Advanced Setup" option.
3. Click "Yes, I am an advanced user" if prompted to do so.
4. Select the "Reboot" submenu.
5. Next to "Restore Modem to Factory Default State," click "Restore."
The reset screen for a Windstream Actiontec T3200 router. (Source)
On this page, you may see several options for rebooting and resetting your router. If you aren't experiencing performance problems with your router and only need to reset the SSID name and password, there is an option for that. Next to "Restore Default Wireless Settings," click "Restore."
6. The router will reset itself.
When it turns back on, log in using the default usernames and passwords listed on the side of the router.
How to Configure a Windstream Router
If you are setting up your router for the first time – or restoring your settings after a reset – you will have to configure your settings. "Configuring" entails changing the settings of your router from its default values. Creating new usernames and passwords keeps your personal information much safer.
When configuring your router, keep a copy of your new settings in a safe place. It will make it much easier to restore them if you reset your router. Depending on your router's model, some of the instructions listed below may be slightly different. Read your user manual to find specific guidelines that apply to your router.
How to Change the Admin Password on a Windstream Router
Since the default admin password on your Windstream router is very generic, it is easy to guess. Changing the password to something more difficult will keep others from logging into your router and altering your settings.
To change your admin password, follow these instructions:
1. Log into your Windstream router.
2. Click on the "Advanced Setup" menu.
3. Select "Proceed, I am an advanced user."
4. Click "Admin Password."
On the left-hand side of the screen, the "Advanced Setup" menu options are displayed. Find the "Admin Password" link and click on it.
5. Enter the default admin password in the "Old Password" field.
6. Type your new password in the "New Password" field.
7. Re-type the new password in the "Confirm Your Password" field.
8. Click "Apply."
How to Change the SSID Name and Create a Guest Network
Under the Wireless menu, you can make changes to any of your internet settings. Under the Basic Settings submenu, the option to change your Service Set Identifier (SSID) name and activate a guest network are on the same page.
Changing your SSID name makes your internet connection more unique to your home or business. Creating a guest network allows others to use your internet while keeping your personal information (such as documents and payment information) private.
Follow these instructions to change your SSID name and activate a guest network:
1. Log in to the router.
2. Click on the Wireless menu. Select the "Basic" submenu.
If you have dual-band internet, click on the Wireless or Wireless Setup menu. Choose the bandwidth you want to edit (either 2.4GHz or 5GHz).
3. Under the "Wireless – Basic" section of the page, make sure the box for "Enable Wireless" is checked.
4. In the "SSID" field, replace the default name with a new name more specific to your connection.
5. Scroll down the page to the "Wireless – Guest/Virtual Access Points."
6. Ensure the box for "Enable/Disable Wireless" is checked in the field for your guest network.
7. Change the SSID of your guest network in the text field.
This new name can be similar to your SSID, with a label to differentiate it from your private network. For example, if you rename your SSID to "Windstream-1234," you can name your guest network "Windstream-1234-Guest."
8. Click "Apply" to save your changes to this page.
How to Change the SSID Password and Update the Security Settings
In the "Wireless" menu option, under the "Security" submenu, you can change your SSID password and tinker with your security settings.
To change your SSID password and update your security settings to recommended levels, follow these instructions:
1. Log into your Windstream router.
After you log into your router, your screen may look like this. (Source)
2. Select the "Wireless" menu option.
3. Click on the "Security" submenu.
If you have dual bandwidth, you'll have to make changes to each one individually. Before moving on to the next step, choose a bandwidth to edit first.
4. In the "WPS Setup" section, use the dropdown menu to select "Disabled."
WPS, or Wi-Fi Protected Setup, is an option available on most routers in which WPS-compatible devices can connect to the internet without entering a password. This puts your information and internet connection at risk. We highly recommend turning off WPS settings.
5. Under the "Manual Setup" section, click the dropdown arrow in the "Select SSID" field. Make sure your SSID is highlighted.
6. In the "Network Authentication" field, choose the security type "WPA2-PSK."
This is the most secure setting for your internet. It requires entering a password before allowing access to a connection.
7. In the "WPA Pre-Shared Key" or "WPA/WAPI Passphrase" field, type in your new SSID password.
8. In the "WEP Encryption" or "WPA/WAPI Encryption" field, select "AES."
9. Click "Apply" to save your changes to this page.
For more help, watch these YouTube tutorials:
If you have Windstream services, setting up and activating your internet service doesn't take long. In less time than it takes to wait for a technician to show up, you can install your equipment yourself. Always make sure to follow your router's recommended security protocols to keep your information safe from prying eyes. Keep your user manual handy in case you run into any issues, and you'll be connected in no time.
Windstream Router FAQ
Listed in this section are some common frequently asked questions for installing and configuring a Windstream router. Feel free to use it as a quick reference when setting up your equipment.
What is the Username and Password for My Windstream Router?
Your Windstream router's username and password are always listed on your equipment on a white sticker. However, most routers use "admin" as their username. The password is probably "admin" as well. Always check the sticker before trying to log in.
Why is My Windstream Router Internet Not Working?
There are several reasons your Windstream Internet isn't working. There may be an internet outage in your area. Contact the company to find all outages in your area. If your service isn't affected, then there may be connectivity issues with the router. This could be something as simple as the wires not being connected securely or something more serious.
If you suspect your router is to blame, try rebooting your equipment. If that doesn't work, perform a factory reset. A reboot or a reset corrects most issues. If you are still having problems with your internet, or the indicator light for your router's internet turns red, contact Windstream Technical Support.
How Do I Change My Windstream Router IP Address?
If you need to change your IP address, log into your router, and click "Advanced Setup." Bypass the warning screen by selecting "Proceed; I am an advanced user." Under the IP Address category, click on "WAN IP Addressing." Scroll down to "Select the DNS Type." Select "Static DNS Addresses." Then change the Primary and Secondary DNS.
Read this article and watch this video below for more help.
This tutorial below is not specific to Windstream routers, but it is incredibly detailed.
What is the IP Address of My Windstream Router?
Your Windstream router's default IP address is printed on the sticker on the side of your router. It is usually http://192.168.254.254, but it varies depending on your model. Check your router's sticker for the correct IP address before attempting to log in.
Can I Use My Router With Windstream?
Yes, you can use your router with Windstream, but it is not recommended. Windstream will not provide technical support for routers not supplied by the company. Windstream offers router rentals at reasonable rates, which will be included in your monthly bill.
What is the WPS Button on My Windstream Router?
The WPS button allows you to connect other WPS compatible devices to the internet without using a password. Pressing the WPS button sends out the wireless signal, which other devices can connect to without logging into your internet connection. You can use WPS by pressing the button on the router or entering your device's WPS code.
How to Set Parental Controls on Windstream Router
1. Log into your router and click on "Advanced Setup." Under the "Blocking/Filtering" menu options, select "Parental Controls."
2. To create Child settings:
- Under the "Parental Controls" column, click on "Set Child's Rule."
- Follow the prompts to limit screen time and website access.
3. Save your changes.
When you return to the Parental Controls screen, click "Child" next to each device to apply the Child settings.
To create Device settings:
- Pick a device under the "Client Device" column.
- Under the Internet Access Controls" column, click "Set Device Rule."
- Follow the prompts to set limits on your device.
- Save your changes.
The device rules will override any child rules applied to that device.
Logging into the Windstream router may seem complicated at first, especially if it’s your first time trying to log in. Rest assured, we broke down every step of the process in this article.
Let us know in the comments if we missed anything or give us some feedback on your networking experience after securing your router.
