Knowing where to find your IP address helps you troubleshoot network issues, set up remote access, and understand how devices identify themselves on the internet. This guide explains the most reliable methods across common operating systems and network environments.
Use the structured overview below to quickly compare how IP addresses appear on desktop computers, mobile devices, and local network equipment.
| Device / Platform | Type of IP Shown | Where to Look | Example Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 10 / 11 | IPv4 and IPv6 | Settings > Network & Internet > Status > View your network properties | 192.168.1.15 / fe80::a00:27ff:fe7c:1234 |
| macOS | IPv4 and IPv6 | System Settings > Network > Select interface > Advanced | 10.0.1.20 / 2001:db8::1 |
| Android | IPv4 | Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network or Wi-Fi > Tap current network | 192.168.1.25 |
| iOS / iPadOS | IPv4 | Settings > Wi-Fi > Tap “i” next to network | 172.20.10.5 |
| Router admin page | Private and Public IPs | Log in to 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 with admin credentials | WAN IP: 203.0.113.45 |
Find IP Address on Windows
On Windows, you can locate both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses using graphical settings or the command line. The Settings app provides a clear network properties page, while Command Prompt and PowerShell offer concise terminal output for quick checks.
For a graphical approach, open Settings and navigate to the network status page. For a terminal approach, commands like ipconfig and Get-NetIPAddress display detailed interface information, including DHCP status and DNS servers alongside the IP address itself.
These methods work across modern versions of Windows, including Windows 10 and Windows 11, and are useful for both basic users and IT professionals who need accurate device addressing data.
Find IP Address on macOS
macOS hides IP addresses behind the Network preference pane, but they are easy to reach once you know the path. System Settings organizes network details per interface, and the Advanced panel reveals both private and public-facing addressing data.
The Terminal offers additional flexibility, allowing you to filter for specific interfaces or export values for scripts. Commands such as ifconfig and ip can display link-local, private, and global IPv6 information depending on your network configuration.
Whether you prefer the clarity of System Settings or the precision of the command line, macOS makes it straightforward to locate the exact IP address your Mac is using at any moment.
Find IP Address on Mobile Devices
Smartphones and tablets show IP addresses in their Wi-Fi network details, but the exact steps differ between Android and iOS. Both platforms require you to open the Wi-Fi settings and tap into the properties of the currently connected network.
On Android, behavior can vary slightly by manufacturer, so some devices may place IPv4 details under an Advanced section. On iOS, the process is consistent, with a direct view of the IP, router, DNS, and lease duration once you open the network info panel.
These mobile methods are ideal for checking whether your phone is receiving the expected address, diagnosing connection problems, or configuring apps that depend on local network awareness.
Router, Modem, and Public IP Lookups
Your router holds the public IP assigned by your ISP and maintains a list of private addresses handed out to devices. Accessing the admin interface at common gateway addresses such as 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 lets you view connection status, connected clients, and wide area network information.
Online lookup tools offer the simplest way to see your public IP address as seen from the internet. These services confirm NAT usage, geographic location estimates, and whether you appear as a direct or relayed endpoint in certain scenarios.
Understanding both the private addressing on your LAN and the public address on the WAN helps you plan port forwards, remote access rules, and security policies for your network.
Key Takeaways and Quick Reference
- Use Settings > Network > Status on Windows for a clear view of IPv4 and IPv6 addresses.
- On macOS, check System Settings > Network > Advanced for interface-specific details.
- Android and iOS both expose IPs in Wi‑Fi network details under the current connection.
- Your router admin page reveals the public WAN IP and connected client list.
- Online lookup tools show the public address the internet sees, helpful for remote access.
FAQ
Reader questions
How can I find my IP address from the command line on Windows?
Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run ipconfig or Get-NetIPAddress. The IPv4 Address field for your active adapter shows the private address, while additional columns may display DHCP and DNS server information.
Where do I look in macOS System Settings to see the IP address?
Go to System Settings > Network, select the active interface such as Wi‑Fi or Ethernet, click Details, and review the IPv4 and IPv6 addresses listed in the panel.
What is the easiest way to check my public IP address?
Visit a trusted site like whatismyipaddress.com or iplocation.net in your browser. These services show the public address your ISP has assigned, which is useful for remote access and troubleshooting NAT behavior.
Can I find my router IP address from my phone settings?
Yes. On Android, open Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network or Wi‑Fi, tap the current network, and check the Gateway field. On iOS, go to Settings > Wi‑Fi, tap the “i” next to the network, and view the Router entry.