Forgetting the admin password to your Motorola AC1900 router can be frustrating, especially when you need to change settings, upgrade your network security, or troubleshoot connectivity issues. Fortunately, this problem is more common than you might think, and there are straightforward steps you can take to recover or reset your password.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a few different ways to regain access to your router’s settings. Whether you’re trying to log in with the default credentials or need to reset the router completely, we’ve got you covered.
Why is the Admin Password Important?
The admin password for your router is the key to controlling your network. This password allows you to log into the router’s configuration page, where you can adjust settings such as your Wi-Fi name, security protocols, and more. It also provides access to critical updates for firmware, ensuring your network stays safe from vulnerabilities.
Without the admin password, you lose control over these configurations, which can make your network less secure or difficult to troubleshoot when problems arise. That’s why it’s crucial to regain access as soon as possible.
Hardware Method to Reset Password
If you’ve forgotten the admin password and can’t log in to the router’s settings page, you can reset the router physically using the hardware method. This is a straightforward process, but it will erase all your custom configurations.
Materials Required:
- A small, pointed object (e.g., paperclip or pin)
Steps:
- Locate the Reset Button: On the back of your Motorola AC1900 router, you’ll find a small, recessed reset button.
- Press and Hold the Button: Using your paperclip or pin, press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds. You should see the router’s lights blink or turn off, indicating that the reset process has started.
- Wait for the Router to Reboot: Once the reset process is complete, the router will reboot. This can take a few minutes.
- Access the Admin Panel with Default Credentials: After the router resets, use the default credentials (Username: admin, Password: motorola) to log into the admin panel.
Software Method to Reset Password
If you still have access to the admin panel but simply want to change the password, you can do this via the software method, without resetting the router.
Materials Required:
- A device connected to your router
- Access to the router’s admin panel (with a known admin password)
Steps:
- Access the Admin Panel: Open a browser on a device connected to the router and enter the IP address (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) to access the login page.
- Login with Your Admin Credentials: Enter your current username and password. If you haven’t changed these, use the default credentials.
- Navigate to the Password Settings: Go to the “Administration” or “Settings” tab (the name may vary depending on the router model).
- Change the Admin Password: Enter a new, strong password and save the changes.
- Reboot the Router (Optional): Some routers may require a reboot for the new password to take effect.
Hardware Vs Software Password Reset – Comparison
| Aspect | Hardware Method | Software Method |
| When to Use | When you’re locked out of the router and can’t log in. | When you can still access the admin panel but want to change the password. |
| Required Materials | Small, pointed object (e.g., paperclip or pin). | Device connected to the router and current admin credentials. |
| Pros | Works without needing the current password.Resets the entire router to factory defaults, ensuring a fresh start. | Doesn’t erase custom settings.Fast and easy if you have admin access. |
| Cons | Erases all custom settings.Requires complete reconfiguration of network settings (Wi-Fi name, password, etc.). | Requires knowledge of the current admin password.Can’t be used if locked out. |
| Time Required | 10-15 minutes (including router reset and reconfiguration). | 5-10 minutes (if password change is the only task). |
| Reconfiguration Needed | Yes, you’ll need to set up your Wi-Fi and other settings again. | No, keeps all existing configurations intact. |
| Success Guarantee | Guaranteed as long as the reset button works. | Depends on knowing the current admin password. |
In Summary
Whether you choose the hardware or software method to reset your Motorola AC1900 router password depends on your situation. If you’ve completely forgotten the password, the hardware method is your best bet, though it will require some reconfiguration afterward. However, if you can still access the router’s settings, the software method is faster and keeps all your configurations intact.
How to Reset Admin Password on Motorola AC1900 Router
Step 1: Try the Default Admin Password
Before you panic and resort to more drastic measures, the first thing to do is check if the router is still using the default admin credentials. Many users never change the default password, so it’s worth giving this a try.
The default credentials for the Motorola AC1900 router are:
- Username: admin
- Password: motorola (or in some cases, it might be left blank)
To attempt logging in:
- Open a web browser on a device connected to your router’s network.
- In the address bar, type the router’s IP address. For most Motorola routers, it’s either 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
- Enter the default username and password as shown above.
If this works, congratulations! You’ve regained access. However, if you changed the password previously and can’t remember it, don’t worry—there’s still a way to reset everything.
Step 2: Resetting the Router to Factory Settings
If the default credentials didn’t work, the next step is to reset the router back to its factory settings. This will restore all the original configurations, including the admin password, but keep in mind that it will also erase any custom settings you’ve applied (like your Wi-Fi name and password).
Here’s how to do it:
- Locate the Reset Button: On the back of your Motorola AC1900 router, you’ll find a small reset button. It’s usually recessed to prevent accidental resets, so you’ll need something small and pointed, like a paperclip.
- Press and Hold the Button: Press the reset button and hold it down for about 10-15 seconds. You should see the lights on the router blink or turn off, signaling that the reset process has started.
- Wait for the Router to Reboot: Once the router resets, it will reboot automatically. This may take a few minutes.
After the reset, the router will be restored to its factory settings, and the admin password will revert to the default one (username: admin, password: motorola).
Step 3: Reconfiguring Your Router
Once the reset is complete, you’ll need to log in with the default credentials and set up your router again. This includes configuring your Wi-Fi network and setting a new, secure admin password.
Here’s a quick setup guide:
- Connect to the Router: Use a device to connect to the router’s Wi-Fi. The default network name (SSID) and password should be printed on a label on the router.
- Access the Admin Panel: Open a web browser and enter the default IP address (either 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) in the address bar.
- Change the Admin Password: Once logged in, immediately change the admin password to something strong and memorable. You don’t want to end up forgetting it again!
- Reconfigure Your Wi-Fi Settings: Rename your Wi-Fi network and set a secure password for connecting devices.
How to Avoid Future Password Issues
Forgetting the admin password is a hassle, but there are ways to prevent this problem from happening again. Here are a few tips:
- Use a Password Manager: Store your router’s login credentials in a password manager so you can easily retrieve them when needed.
- Create a Secure but Memorable Password: While it’s tempting to use something simple, it’s best to create a strong password that’s not easy to guess. Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Write It Down: If you’re not comfortable with digital password storage, write down the password and keep it in a safe place, like a locked drawer.
Conclusion
Losing access to your router’s admin panel can seem like a major inconvenience, but with the steps outlined above, you should be able to reset your Motorola AC1900 router and regain control in no time. Just remember to set a secure password once you’re back in, and consider using a password manager to avoid this situation in the future.
If you’re still having trouble after following these steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to Motorola’s support team for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If the default credentials (Username: admin, Password: motorola) don’t work after a reset, try leaving the password field blank. If that still doesn’t work, confirm the default credentials from the manual or router label, or check Motorola’s support page for your specific model. Occasionally, firmware updates may change the default credentials.
If the physical reset button doesn’t respond or is damaged, you may need to contact Motorola’s customer support. They can guide you through alternative methods to reset the device or suggest repairs if the hardware is malfunctioning.
Yes, if you still have access to the admin panel, you can change the password through the software method. This won’t affect your Wi-Fi settings, as you’re only changing the admin login password. If you perform a hardware reset, all custom settings (including Wi-Fi configurations) will be lost.
It’s a good practice to change your router’s admin password every 3-6 months, especially if you’ve shared it with others or if you notice unusual network activity. This helps keep your network secure from unauthorized access.
