Every device on a network has an IP address - a number that identifies it on that network. You actually have two: one that works inside your home, one that the internet sees.
To find your public IP instantly, search "what is my IP" in Google. To find your local IP (the one relevant for router access), read it from your device's network settings.
Local IP vs Public IP - The Difference
Local IP address (also called private IP)
- Examples: 192.168.1.5, 10.0.0.15
- Only works inside your home network
- Assigned by your router automatically (DHCP)
- Typically starts with 192.168 or 10.
- This is the address other devices on your network use to reach yours
Public IP address
- Example: 85.214.32.109 (any number, assigned by your ISP)
- Visible to the entire internet
- Used by websites and servers to send data back to you
- Shared by all devices in your home (your router has one public IP)
How to Find Your Local IP Address
Windows:
- Press Windows + R, type `cmd`, press Enter.
- Type `ipconfig` and press Enter.
- Look for IPv4 Address under your active connection.
Mac:
- System Settings > Network.
- Select your active connection.
- Click Details > TCP/IP tab.
- The IP Address field shows your local IP.
iPhone:
Settings > WiFi > tap the (i) next to your network > IP Address.
Android:
Settings > WiFi > tap your network > look for IP address in the details.
How to Find Your Public IP Address
The quickest way: search "what is my IP" in Google. The result appears at the top of the page.
Alternatively, visit any IP lookup site in your browser - they display your public IP as soon as the page loads.
Why This Matters for Router Login
When you type `192.168.1.1` in your browser to access your router's admin panel, you are using the router's local IP - not its public IP. This address only works when you are connected to that router's network.
See the full guides: