How to Find Your Router's IP Address

What the router IP address is

The router IP address is the address your devices use to send traffic to the router when they need to reach the internet. In networking terms, this is the default gateway. Your router's admin interface lives at the same address, so knowing it lets you open the configuration page in any browser.

If you want a refresher on how routers fit into your network, start with what is a router. The router is the box that connects your home network to your internet service, and the router IP address is how your device talks to that box.

Find the router IP on Windows

On Windows, the fastest way is through the command prompt. Open the Start menu, type cmd, and press Enter. In the command prompt window, type ipconfig and look for the entry labeled Default Gateway under your active network adapter. That is the router IP you need.

The same value appears in the network settings under your Ethernet or Wi-Fi adapter. In newer Windows versions, you can open Settings, go to Network & Internet, choose Advanced network settings, and open Hardware and connection properties. Look for the Default Gateway entry next to your connected adapter.

Find the router IP on Mac

On a Mac, click the Apple menu, open System Settings, and go to Network. Select the active connection, either Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Click Details, then choose TCP/IP. The Router line shows the address you need.

On older macOS versions, the path is similar: open System Preferences, click Network, select your connection, and click Advanced. The TCP/IP tab has the same Router entry.

Find the router IP on Android and iPhone

On an iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app, tap Wi-Fi, and find the network you are connected to. Tap the information icon next to the network name. The Router field shows the router IP.

On Android, open Settings and look for Network & Internet, Connections, or Wi-Fi, depending on your device. Tap the name of the connected network and look for Gateway, Router, or Default Gateway. Some phones hide these details behind an Advanced or network details option.

If you use a VPN on your phone, the VPN may hide the local network details. Temporarily disconnect the VPN if the Gateway or Router fields are missing.

Use the address to open the admin page

Open any browser and type the router IP into the address bar exactly as it appears in your network settings. You usually do not need to type a web prefix or www. Press Enter and you should see the router's login screen.

If you are asked for a username and password, use the router admin credentials. These are different from your Wi-Fi password. The default credentials are often printed on a label on the router or listed in the manual. For full steps, see how to login to router admin page.

Secure the admin account

Once you can log in, change the admin password if it is still set to the default. Anyone who can reach the router could try the default credentials, so replacing them is one of the most important router security basics.

You should also confirm that the router is using current Wi-Fi security. The Wi-Fi Alliance notes that WPA3 offers more robust authentication and protection against password guessing attempts, and WPA3 is required for current Wi-Fi CERTIFIED devices. Check your router's wireless settings for a WPA3 or security mode option, then follow how to enable WPA3 on router if you need help.

If you cannot find the address or open the page

Some newer routers hide the local admin page behind a companion app. In that case, the router IP may still appear in the app's network details or in your phone's Wi-Fi settings, but the browser page may not open until you enable web access in the app.

Other routers use a setup page at a reserved name instead of an IP address. Check the manufacturer's manual for your specific model. If the page does not load, make sure your device is connected to the router's main network, not a guest network, cellular data, or a VPN. For more help, see router admin page not loading.

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Questions

What is the router IP address?

The router IP address is the address of your router on your local network. It is also called the default gateway. Your computer uses it to send traffic out to the internet, and you use it to open the router admin page. It is not the same as your public IP address, which is the address websites see. See public vs private IP address for the difference.

Can I find the router IP address on my phone?

Yes. On iPhone, look in Settings, tap Wi-Fi, and tap the information icon next to your network. On Android, open Wi-Fi settings and tap the connected network. Look for Gateway or Router in the network details.

Why does the router admin page not open?

Your device may not be connected to the same network, or you may be on cellular data. Some routers only allow admin access from the main network. Try using a wired Ethernet connection, confirm the address, and check the router's manual.

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

For most routers, yes, if you are using a browser. Many newer routers also offer a companion app that can reach the same settings without typing the address. If the app setup is disabled, you will need to use the router IP in a browser.

Can I change the router IP address?

Many routers let you change the local IP address in the LAN settings after you log in. If you change it, you will use the new address to access the admin page afterward.

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

No. The router IP address is private and only used inside your home network. The internet IP address, also called the public IP address, is assigned by your internet provider and is what remote servers see. See public vs private IP address for more.