How to Get Into Your DSL Modem

To modify a modem's configuration settings, you must access its user interface.

If you want to "get into" your DSL modem to modify the device's configuration settings, you do not have to actually physically break into the modem. You merely have to access the modem's user interface. Your modem's user interface is accessed through the Web browser on the computer to which the modem is hooked up. Before you go about accessing the modem's user interface, refer to your modem's manual to learn how to hook up the device to your computer if you have not already done so.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" on the computer to which the modem is hooked up. Point to "All Programs." Point to "Accessories." Select "Command Prompt" to launch the Microsoft Command Prompt.

2. Type "ipconfig" at the prompt. Press "Enter." The Windows IP Configuration information will be listed.

3. Make a note of the IP address listed next to the "Default Gateway" field. An IP address is a series of four numbers separated by three periods. For example, 192.168.1.1 is a common default IP address used by several modem and router manufacturers. The default gateway IP address is the address needed to access the modem's configuration utility user interface.

4. Launch the computer's Web browser. Enter the IP address, noted in Step 3, into the browser's address bar. Press "Enter."

5. Enter the user name and password for your modem. The following is a list of the typical default usernames and passwords for a few common modem brands:

   Actiontec Modems - default username: admin; default password: Password

   D-Link Modems - default username: "admin"; default password: "admin" or (none)

   Linksys Modems - default username: "admin" or (none); default password: "admin"

   Motorola Modems - default username: "admin"; default password: "Motorola"

   Westell Modems - default username: "admin"; default password: "Password"

   If you do not see your modem brand listed, or if the default username and password listed for your modem do not work, refer to your modem's user documentation for the modem's default username and password. If you do not have the modem's user manual, you can likely download it from the manufacturer's website. You can also use the "Forgot default username and password" lookup tool on the 192-168-1-1.org website (see Resources).

References

• Indiana University: Knowledge Base: What is a network's default gateway, and how can I find out what mine is?
• Tech FAQ: 192.168.1.1