Cisco Default Password

A default password is a pre-configured passcode for a device to initiate its first setup. Common default passwords include “admin”, “password”, “guest”, or the brand name such as “Cisco”. Companies typically use a single default passcode for the same model or batch of products. It can usually be found on their official website or through their given manuals, not to mention dozens of websites that publish compiled lists of default login credentials categorized by brand, product, and model. So, a single default password is the default configuration for numerous machines.

Why you need to switch Cisco default password

If you leave your default password unchanged and use it repeatedly, you put your device and data at risk. An intact passcode provides opportunistic hackers with an attack vector to gain unwarranted access to your device and data. This problem escalates If the device is connected to a corporate network, spreading that security risk throughout the corporation. 

Default passwords are nothing more than, hence should be treated as, placeholders. They should only be used for the first setup or just after a factory reset of your device. Users are typically prompted to change the default password after entering it for the first time. Some companies enforce a change of default password upon first use, such that the setup process cannot proceed otherwise. However, the safest and easiest way to get around this issue is to change it using a good password manager.

Cisco is a Silicon Valley corporation that develops, manufactures, and markets networking and telecommunication equipment, software, and services. Routers and switches are the most notable products of Cisco. When you unbox your Cisco switch or router and turn it on, the first setup of the device requires login through the console.

The default username and password are both “cisco” or “admin” with default IP addresses of 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.1.254. Then, you get prompted to set and configure a new passcode for your Cisco account. The complexity of the password is automatically enabled, and if the password that you enter is not strong enough, you are asked to come up with a more complex one.

Why simple passcode is a potential threat

Passwords are used to authenticate the user accessing the switch or router, so a simple passcode causes potential security issues. Password strength requirements are applied by default and can be configured as necessary. Cisco also provides the option to configure the password strength and settings through the web-based utility of the switch or router.

If the default login information doesn't work, it means that it has been changed at least once. Unlike home routers, Cisco business routers and switches have special login info recovery features, so a full factory reset is not needed. Most network devices work with the default IP address they come with. But for corporate routers (especially switches), default IP addresses are often changed upon installation.