Where to find your router's IP address

Your router's IP address is printed on a sticker on the device itself — usually on the back or bottom. Look for a line that says "Default Gateway" or just an address in the format 192.168.1.1 or 10.0.0.1. That number is what you type into a web browser to log in and change your router's settings.

If the sticker is missing or worn away, you can find the same address through your computer or phone in about 30 seconds. The method depends on what device you're using, but the address you find will be the same.

Key Takeaways

  • Your router's IP address is usually printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device.
  • On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig, then look for "Default Gateway" in the results.
  • On Mac or Linux, open Terminal and type ip route or netstat -nr to find the gateway address.
  • On iPhone or Android, go to Settings, find your Wi-Fi network, and tap it to see the router address listed as "Router" or "Gateway".
  • Once you have the address, type it into any web browser's address bar to reach your router's login page.

Finding the address on Windows

Open the Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key, typing cmd, and pressing Enter. A black window will open. Type ipconfig and press Enter. You will see a list of information about your network connection.

Look for the section labeled "Wireless LAN adapter" or "Ethernet adapter" — whichever one you are using to connect to the internet. In that section, find the line that says "Default Gateway". The number next to it is your router's IP address. Write it down or copy it.

Finding the address on Mac

Open the Terminal process. You can find it by clicking the Spotlight icon (magnifying glass) in the top right corner, typing terminal, and pressing Enter. A black window will open.

Type netstat -nr | grep default and press Enter. The first number in the results is your router's IP address. It will look something like 192.168.1.1. If that command does not work, try ip route instead — the default gateway listed is your router's address.

Finding the address on iPhone or Android

On iPhone, go to Settings, tap Wi-Fi, and find the network you are connected to. Tap the name of the network. Scroll down and look for a field labeled "Router" or "Gateway" — the IP address shown there is your router's address.

On Android, go to Settings, tap Network and Internet, then Wi-Fi. Find your connected network and tap it. Look for "Gateway" in the list of details. That address is your router's IP address. Some Android phones organize this differently, so if you do not see it when ready, try tapping "Advanced" or "More options".

What to do once you have the address

Open any web browser — Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge, or any other one you use. Click on the address bar at the top and type the IP address you found. Press Enter. You should see a login page asking for a username and password.

The default username is often admin and the default password is often admin or password, but this varies by router brand. If those do not work, check the sticker on your router again — many manufacturers print the default credentials there. If you changed the password before and cannot remember it, you can reset the router to factory settings by holding down a small reset button on the device for 10 to 15 seconds, which will erase your settings and restore the defaults.

Why you might need your router's address

You log into your router to change the Wi-Fi password, restart the device, update its software, or adjust security settings. You might also need it to troubleshoot a connection problem or to see which devices are connected to your network. The router's settings page shows you all of this information in one place.

Most people do not need to log in often. Once your Wi-Fi password is set and working, you can leave the router alone. But knowing how to find the address means you can fix things yourself if something goes wrong, rather than waiting for a technician or calling your internet provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I try the IP address and nothing happens?

Make sure you typed the address correctly — even one wrong number will not work. Also check that you are connected to your Wi-Fi network, not a different one. If you are still stuck, try the address 192.168.0.1 or 10.0.0.1, as some routers use these instead. If none of those work, the sticker on your router may have the correct address printed on it.

Is it safe to log into my router?

Yes. Your router is your own device, not a public website. Logging in to change your own settings is completely safe. Just do not share your router password with people you do not trust, and change the default login password once you are inside so only you can access the settings.

Can I find my router's IP address on my phone if I am not home?

No. You can only see your router's IP address when you are connected to its Wi-Fi network. If you are away from home and connected to a different network, you will not be able to find it. You would need to be back on your home Wi-Fi to see the address.

What if my router has two IP addresses?

Your router may show multiple addresses if it has both Wi-Fi and wired connections, or if it is set up as a mesh system with multiple units. The address you need is the one labeled "Default Gateway" — that is the main router. The others are usually for specific connections or secondary devices.