If your WiFi password keeps changing unexpectedly, the issue often stems from router settings, unauthorized access, or configuration conflicts between devices. This behavior can manifest as the password reverting to an old one, resetting to default, or fluctuating between multiple passwords. Common causes include remote administration settings left enabled, router firmware glitches, band steering conflicts on dual/tri-band routers, or deliberate changes by network administrators (such as family members). The problem may also arise from incorrect password synchronization across devices or unresolved authentication errors after a reset.

Key findings from the sources:

• Remote administration vulnerabilities can allow unauthorized password changes if not disabled in router settings ^[3]
• Dual/tri-band routers (like Xfinity Gateways) may reset passwords when band steering features conflict with separate network credentials ^[6]
• Factory resets often restore default passwords but may not resolve underlying admin credential issues ^[4]
• Windows-specific troubleshooting (forgetting networks, driver updates, or network resets) can resolve persistent connection failures after password changes ^[2]

Solutions for WiFi Passwords That Keep Changing

1. Secure Your Router Against Unauthorized Changes

Unauthorized password changes typically occur when remote administration is enabled or admin credentials are compromised. Start by accessing your router’s settings via a web browser (common IPs include 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and verify the following:

• Disable remote administration:
• Navigate to the router’s admin panel (often under Advanced > Administration or Security).
• Locate the Remote Access or Remote Management checkbox and uncheck it to prevent external changes ^[3].
• Save settings and restart the router.

• Change admin credentials immediately:
• If you suspect a breach, reset the router to factory defaults by holding the reset button (usually a small pinhole) for 10–15 seconds ^[8].
• After reset, log in with the default admin username/password (check the router’s label) and create a new, strong admin password ^[7].
• Avoid using personal information or common phrases; opt for a 12+ character mix of letters, numbers, and symbols ^[7].

• Check connected devices for unknown users:
• In the router’s admin panel, review the Connected Devices or DHCP Client List.
• Look for unfamiliar device names (e.g., "Wireless PC" or unknown MAC addresses) and block them if suspicious ^[3].
• Enable MAC address filtering to restrict access to approved devices only ^[7].

• Update router firmware:
• Outdated firmware can introduce vulnerabilities. Check for updates in the router’s Administration or Maintenance section and install the latest version ^[7].

2. Resolve Router Configuration Conflicts

Password fluctuations often stem from misconfigured router settings, especially on dual/tri-band systems or after manual resets. Follow these steps to stabilize your network:

• Unify WiFi names and passwords across bands:
• For Xfinity Gateways or similar routers, separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands may have different passwords, causing devices to disconnect when switching bands ^[6].
• In the router settings, ensure both bands share the same WiFi name (SSID) and password to enable band steering (automatic band switching) ^[6].
• Example: If your 2.4GHz password is Password123 and 5GHz is Password456, change both to Password123 ^[6].

• Perform a controlled factory reset:
• If passwords revert unpredictably, a full reset may clear corrupted settings. Press and hold the router’s reset button for 10–15 seconds until lights flash ^[4].
• After reset:
• Reconfigure the WiFi name and password manually (do not use the default credentials) ^[4].
• Reconnect all devices using the new password ^[9].
• Test stability over 24–48 hours to confirm the issue is resolved.

• Troubleshoot Windows-specific connection issues:
• If devices fail to connect after a password change, use these steps: 1. Forget the network: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage known networks, select your network, and click Forget ^[10]. 2. Reconnect with the new password: Select the network again and enter the updated credentials ^[9]. 3. Update wireless drivers: Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters, right-click your WiFi adapter, and select Update driver ^[2]. 4. Run the Network Troubleshooter: Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network troubleshooter ^[10]. 5. Disable power-saving mode: In Device Manager, right-click your WiFi adapter, go to Properties > Power Management, and uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device ^[10].

• Check for ISP-specific quirks:
• Some ISPs (like Comcast Xfinity) may automatically reset passwords during firmware updates or service refreshes ^[6].
• Contact your ISP to confirm if scheduled resets are enabled and request to disable them if possible.