The quickest way to find your modem's IP address

Your modem'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 it to log in to your modem's settings page to change your Wi-Fi password, restart the modem, or troubleshoot connection problems. The fastest way to find it is to look at the sticker on the back or bottom of the modem itself, where manufacturers usually print the default address.

If the sticker is missing or unreadable, you can find the address through your computer or phone in under a minute. The method depends on what device you're using.

Key Takeaways

  • Your modem's IP address is printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the device — check there first.
  • On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig, then look for the "Default Gateway" line.
  • On Mac, go to System Settings, select Network, choose your Wi-Fi connection, and click Details to find the Router address.
  • On iPhone or Android, open your Wi-Fi settings, tap the network you're connected to, and look for the Gateway or Router field.
  • The address you find will almost always start with 192.168 followed by two more sets of numbers.

Finding the IP address on Windows

Open the Start menu and type Command Prompt into the search box, then click the Command Prompt app. A black window will open. Type the word ipconfig (all lowercase) and press Enter.

A list of network information will appear. Look for the section labeled with your network adapter name — usually "Ethernet" if you're plugged in with a cable, or "Wireless LAN adapter" if you're on Wi-Fi. In that section, find the line that says Default Gateway. The number next to it is your modem's IP address. Write it down or copy it into a text file.

Close the Command Prompt window when you're done. You can now open a web browser, type that IP address into the address bar (for example, 192.168.1.1), and press Enter to reach your modem's login page.

Finding the IP address on Mac

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings. In the left sidebar, click Network. You'll see a list of network connections on the left side — select the one you're currently using (usually "Wi-Fi" if you're wireless, or "Ethernet" if you're plugged in).

On the right side of the window, click the Details button. A new window opens showing your network information. Look for the line labeled Router. The IP address next to it is your modem's address. You can now close this window, open a web browser, type that address into the address bar, and press Enter.

Finding the IP address on iPhone or iPad

Open the Settings app and tap Wi-Fi. Find the network you're currently connected to — it will have a checkmark next to it. Tap the network name or the information icon (a circle with an "i" inside) next to it.

A details screen appears. Scroll down and look for a field labeled Router or Gateway. The IP address shown there is your modem's address. You can now open Safari or another browser, type that address into the address bar, and tap Go to reach your modem's login page.

Finding the IP address on Android

Open the Settings app and go to Network & Internet or Wi-Fi (the exact name varies by phone maker). Tap the network you're currently connected to. You may need to tap an information icon or "Advanced" to see more details.

Look for a field labeled Gateway, Router, or DHCP Server. The IP address shown is your modem's address. Open a web browser, type that address into the address bar, and tap Go to reach your modem's login page.

What to do if you reach the login page

Once you've typed your modem's IP address into a browser and pressed Enter, you'll see a login screen. The username and password are usually printed on the same sticker where you found the IP address, or in the paperwork that came with your modem. Common defaults are "admin" for both username and password, but check your modem first.

If you've changed the password before and don't remember it, you can reset the modem to factory settings by holding down the small reset button on the back for 10 to 15 seconds. This erases all your custom settings and returns the modem to its default username and password — you'll have to set up your Wi-Fi again afterward. If you're not comfortable doing this, contact your internet provider; they can walk you through it or reset it remotely.

Why the IP address matters

Your modem's IP address is the gateway to its settings page. From there, you can change your Wi-Fi network name and password, restart the modem if your connection drops, check your internet speed, or look at which devices are connected. You might also need it if a technician from your internet provider asks you to log in and check a setting.

The address itself doesn't change unless you manually alter your network settings, so once you find it, you can save it somewhere safe for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to share my modem's IP address with someone else?

The IP address itself is not sensitive — it's just the address of your modem on your local network. However, don't share your modem's login username and password with anyone you don't trust, because they could change your Wi-Fi settings or restart your connection. If a technician needs access, ask your internet provider to authorize them first.

What if I can't find the Default Gateway or Router line?

Make sure you're looking at the correct network adapter section — the one for the connection you're actually using (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). If you're on Wi-Fi but only see Ethernet information, scroll down in the Command Prompt or Settings window. If you still don't see it, restart your computer and try again.

Can I change my modem's IP address?

You can change it through the modem's settings page, but there's usually no reason to. The default address works fine for most homes. If you do change it, write down the new address when ready, because you'll need it to log back in. If you forget it, you'll have to reset the modem to factory settings.

Why do some modems show 192.168.0.1 and others show 192.168.1.1?

Different manufacturers use different default addresses. Both are private addresses that work only on your home network. The exact number doesn't matter — what matters is that you can reach your modem's login page with it.