Why is my Wi-Fi password not working?

The short answer

Your Wi-Fi password is probably correct but something else is getting in the way — like a typo, the wrong network, or a router issue.

Most common causes

1. You’re typing the password wrong

Wi-Fi passwords are case-sensitive. A lowercase “a” and uppercase “A” are treated as different characters. It’s also easy to mix up similar-looking characters like the number “1” and the letter “l”, or “0” and “O”. Toggle “show password” on to double-check.

2. You’re connecting to the wrong network

If your neighbors have a similar router, their network name might look almost identical to yours. Make sure you’re selecting the right one — check the exact network name (SSID) on your router’s label.

3. The password was changed

Someone in your household may have updated the Wi-Fi password through the router settings. If you’re not sure, check with anyone who has admin access to the router.

4. Your router needs a restart

Routers can glitch and stop accepting new connections, even with the right password. A quick restart often clears the problem.

5. Your device has a saved incorrect password

If you previously connected with an old password, your device might keep trying that outdated one automatically. You’ll need to forget the network and reconnect fresh.

6. The router’s security settings changed

If someone switched the router’s security type (for example, from WPA2 to WPA3), older devices may not be compatible and will reject the connection even with the correct password.

How to fix it

  • Check the password on your router — look at the sticker on the bottom or back of the router for the default password
  • Forget the network on your device, then reconnect and type the password carefully
  • Restart your router — unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in
  • Use “show password” when typing to catch any typos
  • Try connecting a different device — if it works, the problem is with your original device, not the password
  • Log into your router (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) to confirm or reset the password

When should you worry?

If no devices can connect and you’re sure the password is correct, your router may have a hardware problem or a firmware issue. Try a factory reset using the small button on the back of the router. If that doesn’t help, contact your internet provider — the router may need to be replaced.

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