Your router's IP address is usually printed on a sticker on the device itself, or you can find it through your computer or phone in under a minute

The easiest way is to look at the back or bottom of your router — most manufacturers put a sticker there with the default IP address, usually something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If that sticker is missing or worn away, you can pull the address from any device already connected to your network. The steps differ slightly depending on whether you use Windows, Mac, iPhone, or Android, but all of them take you to the same information in your network settings.

You need this address if you want to change your WiFi password, update your router's security settings, or troubleshoot a connection problem. Your internet service provider may also ask for it when you call support. Knowing where to find it means you do not have to wait on hold or dig through paperwork.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the physical sticker on your router first — the IP address is usually printed there along with the default username and password.
  • On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig, then look for the line labeled "Default Gateway" — that is your router's IP address.
  • On Mac, go to System Settings, select Network, click your WiFi connection, then click Details to find the Router field.
  • On iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, select WiFi, tap the network you are connected to, and look for the Router field under the network details.
  • On Android, go to Settings, select Network and Internet, tap WiFi, choose your network, and look for the Gateway field.

Finding the IP address on the router itself

Before you open any settings, flip your router over or look at the back panel. Most routers have a white or silver sticker that lists the default IP address, the model number, the default username, and the default password. Write down the IP address — it usually starts with 192.168.

If the sticker is missing, faded, or the information is unclear, move to the next method. The address you find through your computer or phone will be the same one, so you are not starting over.

Finding the IP address on Windows

Open the Start menu and type Command Prompt. Click on the Command Prompt app to open a black window. Type the word ipconfig and press Enter.

A list of information will appear. Look for the section labeled with your network adapter name (often "Ethernet" or "Wireless LAN adapter"). Find the line that says Default Gateway — the number next to it is your router's IP address. It will look something like 192.168.1.1. You can close the Command Prompt window after you have written it down.

Finding the IP address on Mac

Click the Apple menu in the top left corner and select System Settings. In the sidebar, click Network. On the right side, select the WiFi network you are currently connected to, then click the Details button.

A new window will open with several tabs at the top. Click the TCP/IP tab. Look for the field labeled Router — the number shown there is your router's IP address. Write it down and close the window.

Finding the IP address on iPhone or iPad

Open the Settings app and tap WiFi. Find the network you are currently connected to — it will have a checkmark next to it. Tap the network name or the information icon (the small circle with an "i" inside it) next to it.

A details screen will appear. Scroll down and look for the field labeled Router. The number shown there is your router's IP address. You can take a screenshot or write it down for later use.

Finding the IP address on Android

Open the Settings app and go to Network and Internet or Connections (the exact name varies by phone model). Tap WiFi. Find the network you are connected to and tap it to open the details.

Look for a field labeled Gateway or Router — the number shown is your router's IP address. Some Android phones show this information on the main network details screen, while others require you to tap an information or details button first. If you do not see it when ready, try scrolling down.

What to do once you have the IP address

Once you have written down your router's IP address, you can type it into the address bar of any web browser on a device connected to your network. This takes you to your router's login page, where you can change your WiFi password, update security settings, or restart the device if you are having connection problems.

You will need the username and password to log in. If you have never changed them, they are usually printed on that same sticker on your router — often something like admin/admin or admin/password. If you have changed them and forgotten them, you can reset the router to factory defaults by holding down the reset button (usually a small recessed button on the back) for 10 to 15 seconds, but this will erase any custom settings you have made.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the IP address I find does not match the one on the sticker?

This can happen if your network administrator or internet service provider has changed the default address. The address you find through your computer or phone is the correct one for your current setup — use that one. The sticker shows only what the manufacturer set before the router left the factory.

Is my router's IP address the same as my internet IP address?

No. Your router's IP address (like 192.168.1.1) is only used inside your home network. Your internet IP address is assigned by your internet service provider and is visible to websites you visit. They are two different numbers with different purposes.

Can I change my router's IP address?

Yes, you can change it through the router's settings page, but there is usually no reason to. The default address works fine for most people. Changing it can cause problems if you do not know what you are doing, so only do it if you have a specific reason and understand the consequences.

Why does my router not show up in the network settings?

Make sure you are looking at the right network adapter — if you are using WiFi, look for the wireless adapter section, not the Ethernet section. If you are still not seeing it, try disconnecting and reconnecting to your WiFi network, then run the command or check the settings again.