How to Find the Default Router on a Computer

Routers are devices that use IP addresses to send and receive signals and information between computers or between systems and Internet destinations. In order to send and receive these signals, a router must be installed on a computer. Most people don't think about routers or their IP addresses until the time comes for them to set up a network or an Internet connection, or to modify an existing one. The default router is easy to find if you follow these simple steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Click on "Start" and then click on "Control Panel."

2. Click on "Network and Internet."

3. Click on "View network computers or devices" under "Network Sharing Center."

4. Right-click on the router device and click on "Properties."

5. Click on "Network Device." Find the line that says "IP address:" and write down the series of numbers adjacent to the line.

6. Click on "Start" and then click on "Run."

7. Type "cmd" or "command" in the box and click on "OK." This will take you to the command prompt.

8. Type "ipconfig /all" (that's "ipconfig," spacebar, "/all") and press "Enter."

9. Find the line that says "Default Gateway" and look at the series of numbers that are adjacent to it. If those numbers match the number of your router's IP address, then you've found your default router.

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