When the sticker fails, it’s time to go old-school: Google your router’s model number. That string of letters and numbers on the bottom (like “Netgear R6700”) is your breadcrumb. Type it into a search engine, and you’ll find a trove of forum posts and official support pages. A quick search like “default password for [your model]” works, and you’ll often get instant answers.
For a pro move, check RouterPasswords.com—a crowd-sourced database that feels like the Oracle of router logins. It’s saved me more times than I care to admit. Just bookmark it, because future you will thank present you.
