Wi-Fi Password Keeps Being Rejected? What to Do

Problem Statement – Clear & Direct

You’re entering the correct Wi-Fi password, but your device keeps saying it’s incorrect or won’t connect.

Common Symptoms

• “Incorrect password” message appears repeatedly

• Device connects briefly, then disconnects

• Other devices connect fine using the same password

• New device won’t join the network

• Wi-Fi works on one device but not another

This problem is usually device-specific, not a router failure.

Why This Happens

Wi-Fi passwords are rejected most often because:

• Extra spaces or hidden characters were entered

• The device saved an outdated password

• Auto-fill inserted the wrong credentials

• Keyboard settings changed (caps, symbols, language)

• The router password was updated recently

The issue is usually simple—even if it feels frustrating.

Step-by-Step Fixes

Step 1: Re-enter the Password Carefully

Slow down and type it manually.

• Avoid copy/paste

• Check capitalization

• Watch for similar characters (O vs 0, l vs 1)

Even one extra character will cause failure.

Step 2: Forget and Reconnect to the Network

This clears stored password errors.

• Go to Wi-Fi settings

• Select your network

• Choose Forget or Remove

• Reconnect and enter the password again

This fixes many password-related issues.

Step 3: Check the Router’s Wi-Fi Label or Settings

Make sure you’re using the correct password.

• Check the label on the router (if unchanged)

• Log into the router admin page if the password was updated

• Confirm you’re connecting to the correct network name (SSID)

Homes with multiple networks often cause confusion.

Step 4: Check Keyboard & Language Settings

Small keyboard changes can break passwords.

• Make sure Caps Lock is off

• Confirm the keyboard language is correct

• Turn off auto-correct temporarily

This is especially common on phones and tablets.

Step 5: Restart the Device (Once)

If the password is correct but still rejected:

• Restart the device

• Reconnect to Wi-Fi

• Enter the password again

This clears cached authentication errors.

When This Doesn’t Work

If:

• Multiple devices reject the password

• You recently changed router settings

• You can’t confirm the correct password

The router may need its Wi-Fi settings reviewed.

Next Best Action

At this point, your best options are:

• Reset the Wi-Fi password on the router

• Use a simple temporary password to test

• Contact your ISP or router manufacturer for help

Avoid resetting the entire router unless necessary.

If only one device is having trouble connecting, this fix explains what to do when internet works on some devices but not others.

If connection issues continue after re-entering the password, this guide explains how to restart your modem and router the right way.

Final Tip

Password issues are common and rarely serious.
Taking a slow, step-by-step approach prevents unnecessary resets and saves time.