Your router's IP address is printed on the device itself or in your account settings
The easiest place to find your router's IP address is on a sticker attached to the back or bottom of the device. Most routers have a label that lists the IP address (often called the "default gateway"), the model number, and the Wi-Fi network name. The address usually looks like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
If you cannot find the sticker or it is worn away, you can look up the address through your computer or phone in under a minute. The method depends on whether you use Windows, Mac, or a mobile device, but all of them show the router's IP address in the network settings.
Key Takeaways
- The router's IP address is almost always printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device itself.
- On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig, then look for the line labeled "Default Gateway."
- On Mac, go to System Settings, select Network, click Details, and find the Router field.
- On iPhone or Android, the router IP appears in Wi-Fi settings under the network name you are connected to.
- Once you have the address, type it into a web browser to log in and change your router settings.
Finding the IP address on Windows
Open Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key, typing cmd, and pressing Enter. A black window will open with a blinking cursor.
Type ipconfig and press Enter. A list of network information will appear. Look for the section labeled "Default Gateway" — the number next to it is your router's IP address. Write it down or take a screenshot.
If you see multiple "Default Gateway" entries, you are likely connected to more than one network. The one you need is under the section that shows your current Wi-Fi network name (listed as "Wireless LAN adapter" or similar).
Finding the IP address on Mac
Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings. On older versions of macOS, this is called System Preferences.
Click Network in the left sidebar. Select the Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to, then click Details. A window will open showing your network information. Look for the field labeled "Router" — the IP address is listed there.
Finding the IP address on iPhone or Android
On iPhone, go to Settings, tap Wi-Fi, and find the network name you are connected to. Tap the information icon (a small circle with an "i") next to the network name. The router's IP address appears in the field labeled "Router."
On Android, go to Settings, tap Network and Internet, then Wi-Fi. Select the network you are connected to and hold down on it until a menu appears. Tap Modify or Manage. The router's IP address is listed under "Gateway."
What to do once you have the IP address
Open a web browser on any device connected to your Wi-Fi network and type the IP address into the address bar — for example, 192.168.1.1 — then press Enter. A login page will appear.
Enter your router's username and password. These are usually printed on the same sticker as the IP address, or they may be the defaults set by the manufacturer (often "admin" for both username and password, though this varies). Once logged in, you can change your Wi-Fi password, update security settings, or restart the router if it is not working properly.
If you cannot log in with the credentials on the sticker, the password may have been changed since the router was set up. Most routers have a reset button on the back that you can hold for 10 to 15 seconds to restore the factory defaults, though this will erase any custom settings you have made.
Why you might need the router's IP address
The router's IP address is the gateway to changing your network settings. You need it to update your Wi-Fi password, turn on security features like WPA3 encryption, change the network name, set up a guest network, or restart the router when it stops responding.
It is also useful for troubleshooting. If your internet is slow or devices keep disconnecting, logging into the router lets you see which devices are connected, check for firmware updates, or adjust the Wi-Fi channel to reduce interference from neighbouring networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I forget my router's login password?
Most routers have a small reset button on the back that restores the factory defaults when held for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases any custom settings, including your Wi-Fi password, so you will need to set up the network again. If you want to avoid a full reset, contact your internet provider — they may be able to help you recover the password.
Is the IP address on the sticker the same every time?
Yes. The IP address printed on the sticker is the default address the router uses unless you manually change it in the settings. Most home networks never change it, so the sticker address will work indefinitely.
Can I find my router's IP address from my phone if I am not home?
No. The IP address only works when you are connected to that specific Wi-Fi network. If you are away from home and connected to a different network, you cannot reach your router. You would need to be back on your home Wi-Fi to access it.
What if the IP address does not work when I type it in?
Make sure you are connected to your home Wi-Fi network, not a mobile hotspot or a different network. Also check that you typed the address correctly — even one wrong number will prevent the login page from loading. If it still does not work, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and try again.