Finding your router's IP address on Windows, Mac, or Linux

Your router's IP address is a number that identifies it on your network — something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. You need this address to log into your router's settings page, where you can change your Wi-Fi password, update firmware, or adjust security features. The fastest way to find it depends on what device you're using.

On Windows, open Command Prompt (search for "cmd" in the Start menu), type ipconfig, and press Enter. Look for the line labeled "Default Gateway" — that number is your router's IP address. On Mac, open System Preferences, go to Network, select your Wi-Fi connection, and click Advanced. The router's address appears under the TCP/IP tab as "Router". On Linux, open a terminal and type ip route — the address after "via" is your router's IP.

Key Takeaways

  • Your router's IP address is printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device itself, which is the fastest way to find it.
  • Windows users can find it by typing ipconfig in Command Prompt and looking for "Default Gateway".
  • Mac users can find it in System Preferences under Network, then the Advanced tab for their Wi-Fi connection.
  • Once you have the IP address, type it into a web browser's address bar to reach your router's login page.

Check the physical router first

Before you open any menus or type any commands, flip your router over or look at the back. Most routers have a sticker with the model number, serial number, and default IP address printed right on it. This address is usually 192.168.1.1, 192.168.0.1, or 10.0.0.1, depending on the manufacturer. Writing down this address takes five seconds and saves you from digging through settings.

If the sticker is worn or missing, the manufacturer's website has the default address listed for your specific model. Search for your router model number plus "default IP" and you'll find it in the manual or support page.

Using your router's IP address to log in

Once you have the IP address, open any web browser and type it into the address bar — just like you would type a website. Press Enter. You'll see a login page asking for a username and password. The default credentials are usually "admin" for both, but check your router's sticker or manual to be sure, because some manufacturers use different defaults.

If you've changed the password before and don't remember it, you can reset the router to factory defaults by holding down the reset button (usually a small hole on the back) for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases all your custom settings, including your Wi-Fi password, so only do this if you're prepared to set everything up again.

What to do if you can't find the IP address

If the sticker is gone and you can't remember the model number, look at your router's physical appearance and search for it on Google Images. Once you identify the model, search for "model number default IP address" and the manufacturer's support page will tell you what it is. Most routers use one of three defaults: 192.168.1.1, 192.168.0.1, or 10.0.0.1 — you can try typing each one into your browser to see which one works.

If none of those work, your network administrator may have changed the IP address from the default. In that case, contact whoever set up your network, or reset the router to factory settings and start over with the default address.

Why you might need your router's IP address

Knowing your router's IP address lets you access its settings page, where you can change your Wi-Fi password without losing internet connection, update the firmware to patch security holes, check which devices are connected to your network, or adjust advanced settings like port forwarding. You'll also need it if you're troubleshooting connection problems or setting up a guest network.

If you're setting up a home network for the first time, logging into your router's settings page is one of the first steps. This is where you'll change the default Wi-Fi password from whatever the manufacturer set it to, something only you know.

Keeping track of your router information

Once you find your router's IP address and log in successfully, write it down somewhere you can find it later — a note on your phone, a document on your computer, or even a sticky note on the router itself. Include the username and password you use to log in. This saves you time the next time you need to adjust a setting or troubleshoot a problem.

If you change your router's login password (which is different from your Wi-Fi password), update your notes. Many people forget they changed it and then get locked out of their own router settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the router IP address the same as my Wi-Fi password?

No. The router IP address is the number you type into a browser to reach the settings page. Your Wi-Fi password is what you type into your phone or laptop to connect to the internet. They're completely separate, and you need both to manage your network.

Can I change my router's IP address?

Yes, but you usually shouldn't. Changing it can break devices that expect the default address and can make troubleshooting harder. If you need to change it, do it from inside the router's settings page under LAN or Network settings, but write down the new address when ready so you don't lock yourself out.

What if I type the IP address and nothing happens?

Make sure you're connected to the router's network (either by Wi-Fi or ethernet cable). If you are, try typing http:// before the IP address, like http://192.168.1.1. If that doesn't work, try the other common defaults (192.168.0.1 or 10.0.0.1). If none of them work, reset the router to factory settings.

Do I need the router IP address to change my Wi-Fi password?

Yes. You change your Wi-Fi password by logging into the router's settings page using its IP address. Some newer routers have a mobile app that lets you change the password without typing the IP address, but the IP address method works on every router.