The fastest way to find your modem IP

Your modem's IP address is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. Type one of these into your web browser's address bar — the same place you type website names — and you'll reach your modem's login page. If neither works, check the sticker on the back or bottom of your modem; most manufacturers print the default IP address there.

If you need the address for a different reason — to troubleshoot a connection, change your WiFi password, or restart your modem remotely — this method gets you there in under a minute. The steps differ slightly between Windows and Mac, but the end result is the same.

Key Takeaways

  • Your modem's default IP is almost always 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1, printed on a sticker attached to the device.
  • On Windows, you can find your modem's IP by opening Command Prompt and typing ipconfig, then looking for "Default Gateway."
  • On Mac, open System Preferences, select Network, and the router IP appears under "Router" in the TCP/IP settings.
  • Once you have the IP, enter it in your browser's address bar to access your modem's settings page and log in with the default username and password.

Finding your modem IP on Windows

Open the Start menu and type Command Prompt into the search box. Click the Command Prompt app when it appears. 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 modem's IP address. Write it down or copy it.

Close the Command Prompt window and open your web browser. Click the address bar at the top, paste or type the IP address, and press Enter. Your modem's login page should load.

Finding your modem IP on Mac

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Preferences (or System Settings on newer Macs). Click Network.

Select your active connection — usually Wi-Fi or Ethernet — from the list on the left. Click the Advanced button, then select the TCP/IP tab. The number next to "Router" is your modem's IP address.

Open your web browser, click the address bar, and type or paste the IP address. Press Enter to reach your modem's login page.

What to do if the default IP doesn't work

If 192.168.0.1 and 192.168.1.1 both fail to load, check the physical modem. Look for a sticker on the back, bottom, or side of the device. Most manufacturers print the default IP address, username, and password on this label. The address might be different from the two most common ones — some modems use 192.168.100.1 or another variation.

If there's no sticker and you still can't connect, restart your modem. Unplug it from power, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Once it finishes restarting (the lights will stop blinking), try the default IPs again. If you know your modem's brand and model number, you can also search online for "[brand] [model] default IP" to find the correct address.

Logging into your modem once you have the IP

After you type the IP address into your browser and press Enter, a login page will appear. It will ask for a username and password. The default credentials are usually admin for both the username and password, though some manufacturers use different defaults — check the sticker on your modem or the manual that came with it.

Once you're logged in, you'll see your modem's settings page. From here you can restart the modem, change your WiFi network name and password, check your connection status, or adjust other network settings. Be careful not to change settings you don't understand, as this can disconnect your internet.

Why you might need your modem's IP address

The most common reason to access your modem is to restart it when your internet stops working. You can do this from the settings page without unplugging the device. You might also need to log in to change your WiFi password, check whether your modem is receiving a signal from your internet provider, or see how many devices are connected to your network.

Some people also need the IP address to set up port forwarding, change DNS settings, or troubleshoot connection problems with the help of your internet provider's support team. In most cases, your provider can walk you through these steps over the phone if you give them the modem's IP address.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between my modem IP and my router IP?

Your modem connects directly to your internet provider's network. Your router connects to your modem and broadcasts WiFi to your devices. They often have different IP addresses. If you have a combined modem-router unit, the IP address controls both functions. If they're separate devices, you'll have two different IPs — one for each.

Is it safe to access my modem's settings page?

Yes, as long as you're on your own network. Only change settings if you understand what they do. Avoid changing your modem's IP address, DNS settings, or firmware unless you have a specific reason and instructions from your internet provider or modem manufacturer.

What if I forgot my modem's login password?

Most modems have a reset button on the back. Press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds to restore the modem to factory settings. This will erase any custom settings you've made and reset the password back to the default. Check your modem's sticker for the default username and password before you reset.

Can I change my modem's IP address?

Yes, you can change it from the settings page, but most people should not. Changing the IP can confuse devices on your network and break port forwarding rules you've set up. Only change it if your internet provider specifically tells you to, or if you're an advanced user setting up a custom network.