What you need to know first

Your router's IP address is a number that identifies it on your home network — something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. You need this address to log in and change your router's settings, including the password that protects your Wi-Fi. The address is printed on a sticker on the router itself, but if that sticker is worn or missing, you can find it through your computer or phone in under a minute.

Every router has a default IP address set by the manufacturer. Most home routers use one of two addresses: 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If neither of those works, your router's manual or the manufacturer's website will list the correct one. The address does not change unless you deliberately change it in the router's settings.

Key Takeaways

  • Your router's IP address is printed on a sticker attached to the router — check there first before trying other methods.
  • On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig, then look for the line labeled "Default Gateway" — that number is your router's IP address.
  • On Mac, go to System Settings, click Network, select your Wi-Fi connection, and look for "Router" in the details panel.
  • On iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, tap Wi-Fi, select your network name, and scroll down to find the router address listed as "Router".
  • Most home routers use 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 as their default address if you cannot find it any other way.

Check the sticker on your router first

The fastest way to find your router's IP address is to look at the physical device itself. Most routers have a sticker on the bottom or back that lists the default IP address, along with the default username and password. The address is usually labeled as "IP Address", "Default Gateway", or sometimes just shown as a web address like "http://192.168.1.1".

If the sticker is faded, scratched, or missing, move to the next method. Do not assume the address has changed — routers keep their default address unless you manually change it in the settings.

Find it on Windows using Command Prompt

Open Command Prompt on your Windows computer. The fastest way is to press the Windows key and type cmd, then press Enter. A black window will open.

Type ipconfig and press Enter. A list of information will appear. Look for the section labeled "Default Gateway" — the number next to it is your router's IP address. It will look something like 192.168.1.1. You can now close Command Prompt.

If you see multiple "Default Gateway" entries, use the one under the network connection you are currently using (usually labeled "Ethernet" if you are plugged in with a cable, or "Wireless LAN Adapter" if you are on Wi-Fi).

Find it on Mac using System Settings

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings. In the left sidebar, click Network.

Select your Wi-Fi network from the list on the left. On the right side, you will see details about your connection. Scroll down until you see a line labeled Router — the address next to it is your router's IP address. Close System Settings when you are done.

Find it on iPhone or iPad

Open the Settings app and tap Wi-Fi. Find the Wi-Fi network you are connected to and tap the information icon (a small circle with an "i" inside it) next to the network name.

A details panel will open. Scroll down to find the line labeled Router. The address shown there is your router's IP address. You can now close Settings.

What to do if you cannot find it

If none of the above methods work, try entering the two most common default addresses directly into your web browser: 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Type one of these into the address bar and press Enter. If your router uses that address, a login page will appear.

If neither address works, check your router's manual or visit the manufacturer's support website. Search for your router's model number (printed on the sticker or the back of the device) and look for "default IP address" or "how to access router settings". Netgear, TP-Link, Linksys, and other major manufacturers list this information on their support pages.

What happens after you find it

Once you have your router's IP address, you can type it into any web browser to reach your router's login page. You will be asked for a username and password — these are also on the sticker on your router, or in the manual. The default username is often "admin" and the default password is often "admin" or "password", though this varies by manufacturer.

After you log in, you can change your Wi-Fi password, update your router's security settings, and manage which devices are connected to your network. Changing the default password is one of the most important steps in securing your home network, which is why finding this address matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my router's IP address change?

No, not unless you manually change it in the router's settings. The default address stays the same. However, the addresses assigned to your individual devices (like your phone or computer) change regularly — those are different from your router's address.

Is the 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 provider and is what the outside world sees. You can find your internet IP by searching "what is my IP" in any web browser.

What if I forgot my router's login password?

You can reset your router to factory defaults by holding down the reset button (usually a small hole on the back) for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. This erases all your settings and returns the password to the default. You will need to set up your Wi-Fi again from scratch.

Can I change my router's IP address?

Yes, but there is no reason to unless you are an advanced user. Changing it can cause problems if you are not careful. Leave it at the default address unless you have a specific reason to change it.

Why do I need to know my router's IP address?

You need it to log in and change your router's settings — especially your Wi-Fi password. It is also useful for troubleshooting network problems or updating your router's firmware (the software that runs it).