The default IP address or the default gateway is a private IP address that is assigned to the router you are using. It is important because it allows you to communicate with a local home network. Knowing the default IP address and password is necessary as it is useful information. It comes in handy when you need to access the web-based management. Locating it is not that difficult, and it does not take a lot of time.

Knowing just the IP address is not difficult as several tools can tell my IP location but when you need to access the router, you need to follow certain steps. Here is a guide for finding the default gateway in different systems.

Finding default gateway IP address in Windows:

If you are looking to locate the default gateway IP on the basic wireless and wired networks, then the instruction given below will work. They are not for vast and complicated systems. The instructions may slightly differ based on the Windows you are using as well.

 

  1. The first step changes with the versions of windows. If you are using Windows 7 or 8, then you need to start by opening control panel. But if you are using other versions such as Windows 10 or 8.1 then you do not need to start from control panel instead you can directly open network connections.
  2. When the control panel is open, you need to click on the link to network and internet. This step is not for Windows 8.1 or 10. If you cannot see the link, you should open network and sharing center.
  3. One network and internet window is open you need to take different steps depending on windows you are using. If you are using Windows 7, 8 or 10, then you need to click on network and sharing center which is most likely the first link on the page. If you are using Windows XP, then you should select the network connection link.
  4. If you have selected network and sharing center, then the next step is choosing the option of change adapter settings. If you are using Windows Vista, then you need to choose different option titles manage or change network connections.
  5. If you are viewing the network connections page, then you should look for a network connection for which you need to see the default IP address. In most Windows systems the network connection that is wired is labelled as local area connection or Ethernet. If you have a wireless connection, then it will be marked either as Wi-Fi or wireless network connection. You also need to remember that Widows have the ability to connect to various networks a time, so it is possible that more than one connections show up on the screen. You should not pay any attention to the systems that say disabled or not connected. If you are finding it difficult to determine which network is yours, then you can check the detailed view and see the information in connectivity.
  6. Double click on the status of the network and you will be able to select the details option. In Windows XP you need to click the support tab to see the details.
  7. The IP address that is showing as a value of the property is the default IP address that your system is using.

By following these simple steps, you will have the default gateway IP and use it to access the router or any other task that requires it.

 

Author's Bio: 

My name is Kevin Jones and I have a great passion for small business. I love to share my knowledge and experience about small businesses with people who are interested in starting a new business. I am not afraid to share my opinions that are drawn from the understanding, I have gained after years of experience. I am aware of all the traits that make a good small business adviser and I wish to share my expertise with anyone willing to venture into the world of startups.