To change your wireless network name, you must log into your router’s settings using either the manufacturer’s app or a web browser via the router’s IP address. The exact method depends on your router brand and model, not on your phone’s general settings, so choose the path that matches your equipment.
How to change your wireless network name
The fastest way to change your Wi‑Fi name is through your router’s dedicated app or by logging into the router’s admin page with a browser. Below is a quick-start summary of each path, followed by detailed steps for the most common routers.
Why change your Wi‑Fi name
Changing the default SSID improves security because hackers often target known default network names. In dense areas, a custom name prevents your devices from accidentally connecting to a neighbor’s network. It also makes it easy for everyone in your household to identify and connect to the correct network.
Change the name using your router’s app
If your router is managed through a smartphone app, follow the steps for your specific equipment.
Google Nest Wifi or Google Wifi
- Open the Google Home app.
- Tap Home > Wifi > Network settings.
- Enter the new network name in the provided field.
- Tap Save.
Apple AirPort base stations
- Open AirPort Utility on a Mac. This page applies to Mac and AirPort base stations, not to iPhone or Android.
- Select your base station and click Edit.
- Click Wireless, then enter the new name in Wireless Network Name.
- Click Update.
AT&T supported gateways
- Open the AT&T Smart Home Manager app.
- From the main screen, tap My Wi‑Fi or Network.
- Tap Edit next to the Wi‑Fi name or Device name setting. AT&T pages show slightly different labels depending on the device page, including Wi‑Fi name and Device name.
- Enter the new value and tap Save.
Change the name using a web browser
For routers that lack a dedicated app, use the traditional browser method.
- Find your router’s IP address (common defaults are 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1; check the router’s sticker or documentation).
- Open a browser, type the IP address into the address bar, and press Enter.
- Log in with the router’s admin username and password. If you never changed them, look for the default credentials on the router or in its manual.
- Navigate to Wireless Settings or Wi‑Fi Settings.
- Locate the Network Name or SSID field.
- Enter your new network name and click Save or Apply.
Important rules and limits for your new network name
Apple documents that Wi‑Fi router names should be a single, unique name for all bands and that the name is case‑sensitive. Avoid including personal information, keep the name short, and skip special characters that might cause connection issues on some devices. The documented steps for changing names and labels on mobile apply only to the router’s app, not to the phone’s own settings.
Reconnect your devices after the change
- On each phone, laptop, smart home device, and gaming console, go to the Wi‑Fi settings.
- Select the new network name from the list of available networks.
- Enter the network password if prompted.
- For smart home devices, update the saved network in their respective apps.
What about changing the name from an iPhone or Android
Phone settings do not change the router’s SSID. The iPhone or Android’s own hotspot name is a separate setting; to rename your phone’s hotspot, see the instructions for how to rename hotspot on iPhone. To change your home router’s Wi‑Fi name, always use the router’s app or admin tool as described above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my network name affect my internet speed?
No. Changing the SSID only alters the name that appears in your device’s Wi‑Fi list. It has no effect on bandwidth, signal strength, or connection speed.
Do I need to change the network password at the same time?
Not unless you want to. The SSID and password are separate settings. If you are changing the name for security reasons, updating the password as well can add another layer of protection.
What should I do if I forget my router’s admin password?
Most routers have a physical reset button. Press and hold it for about 10 seconds to restore factory defaults. You can then log in with the default credentials printed on the router and set a new admin password.
Can I use spaces or emoji in my network name?
Some routers allow spaces, but emoji and other special characters may cause older devices to not see or connect to the network. Stick to letters, numbers, and hyphens for the widest compatibility.
Why can’t I see my new network name after saving?
The router may need a minute to reboot. If the name still does not appear, try power‑cycling the router and refreshing the Wi‑Fi list on your device.
