Are you trying to set up your home network, update firmware, or troubleshoot internet issues, but don't know the name of your Wi-Fi router? Without the exact model name, it's difficult to find the right instructions, drivers, or firmware. This problem is familiar to many: the box is long gone, the sticker is worn off, and the settings are all in English. Luckily, there's at least 7 ways Identify your router model - from the obvious to the little-known.
In this article, we'll cover all methods—from a simple device inspection to using specialized utilities. You'll learn where to look for information on the router itself, how to find it on a computer or smartphone, and what to do if standard methods don't work. We'll also explain why it's important to know the exact model, not just the brand name.TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic and others).
Whether your router is connected to the internet or just sitting in a box, you're sure to find a solution for your situation.
1. Inspecting the router case: where to look for the model name
The quickest way is to carefully inspect the device itself. Manufacturers always place key information on the case, but it's not always obvious. The data sticker may be located:
- 📋 On the bottom panel — the most common location. Turn the router over and look for a white or silver label with small print.
- 🖼️ On the back wall - some models (for example, Zyxel Keenetic) place data near ports.
- 🔖 Under the removable lid - rare, but occurs in older devices (for example, D-Link DIR-300).
- 📦 On the box - if it has been preserved, the model is indicated on the end or bottom of the packaging.
On the sticker, look for lines like:
Model: TL-WR841N, Device Name: RT-AC66U or Type: HG8245H.
Sometimes the model is designated in an abbreviated form - for example, Archer C20 instead of full TP-Link Archer C20 V4It is important to write down the whole line, including alphanumeric designations (V4, Rev.2 etc.), since firmware compatibility and settings depend on this.
⚠️ Attention: On some routers (especially from providers, for example, Rostelecom or Beeline) The sticker may only contain the serial number and MAC address. In this case, proceed to the next method.
2. Router web interface: where to find the model in the settings
If the router is turned on and connected to the network, you can find the model number through its web interface. This method works even without internet access—the main thing is that the device is turned on and can be connected via cable or Wi-Fi.
Instructions:
- Connect to the router:
- 🔌 By network cable (recommended) - insert the cable into any LAN port.
- 📶 By Wi-Fi — find the router network in the list of available ones (usually the network name matches the model name or contains the provider name).
192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1, 192.168.8.1 or 10.0.0.1.
If these addresses do not work, find out the correct IP via the command line (the method is described below).
admin/admin or admin/passwordIf it doesn't fit, check the information on the router sticker.- 📄 Status or Overview - usually at the top of the main page.
- 🔧 System Tools → System Information.
- ℹ️ About or Information — in the menu on the right or below.
Examples of model placement in popular routers:
| Brand | Model | The path to information |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | Archer C6 | Advanced → System Tools → System Information |
| ASUS | RT-AX58U | Administration → System (line "Product name") |
| Keenetic | Giga III | General Settings → Device (Information block) |
| ZTE | H298A | System → Device Information |
| MikroTik | hAP ac² | System → Resources (Model field) |
⚠️ Attention: If the router gives the provider (for example, MTS or Dom.ru), its web interface may be blocked or modified. In this case, try the mobile app method or contact technical support.
3. Mobile apps: how to find out the model via smartphone
Many manufacturers release official apps for managing routers. They not only display the device model but also allow you to configure the network without logging into the web interface. This method is convenient if you don't have access to a computer.
Popular apps:
- 📱 Tether (TP-Link) - shows the model on the main screen in the "Device" section.
- 📱 ASUS Router — the model is indicated at the top of the screen after connection.
- 📱 Keenetic — information in the "System" → "About device" section.
- 📱 Mi Wi-Fi (Xiaomi) — the model is displayed in the router profile.
How to use:
- Download the app from App Store or Google Play (search by brand name).
- Connect to the router's Wi-Fi network.
- Register or log in as a guest (if required).
- On the home screen or in Settings, find the section with device information.
✅ The advantage of this method: you don't need to remember your IP address or login/password—the app connects automatically.
❌ Disadvantage: only works if the router is supported by the manufacturer (not suitable for older or OEM models from providers).
Download the brand's official app|Connect to your Wi-Fi router|Allow access to the local network|Check the "About device" or "System" section-->
4. Command Line: How to Find Your Router Model on Windows, macOS, or Linux
If your router is connected to your computer via cable or Wi-Fi, you can determine its model using network commands. This method is universal and works even if the web interface is blocked.
For Windows:
Open Command line (Win + R → enter cmd → Enter) and perform the following in turn:
ipconfig /allLook for the line Main gateway — this is the IP address of your router. For example, 192.168.1.1.
arp -aThis command will display the MAC addresses of all devices on the local network. Find the line with the gateway IP (from the previous command) – the router's MAC address will be next to it.
nslookup 192.168.1.1Sometimes the server response indicates the device model (this does not work for all routers).
For macOS/Linux:
Open Terminal and enter:
netstat -rn | grep defaultThis command will display the gateway IP. Then run:
arp -a | grep [gateway_IP]To find out the manufacturer by MAC address, use the command:
curl "https://api.macvendors.com/[MAC address]"For example, if the MAC address 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E, enter:
curl "https://api.macvendors.com/00:1A:2B"The service will return the name of the manufacturing company (for example, TP-Link Technologies), which will help narrow down the search for the model.
⚠️ Attention: The MAC address will only reveal the brand, not the exact model. For more information, use the other methods in this article.
What to do if nslookup command does not show the model?
If nslookup returns only the IP without the device name, try connecting via Telnet (if enabled):
telnet 192.168.1.1After connecting, some routers display a welcome message with the model. The login/password is usually admin/admin or an empty password.
5. Specialized utilities: programs for identifying the model
If standard methods don't work, use network analysis software. They scan your local network and display detailed information about connected devices, including routers.
Popular utilities:
- 🔍 Advanced IP Scanner (Windows) — a free program that shows the manufacturer and model by MAC address. Download from the official website. advanced-ip-scanner.com.
- 🔍 Fing (Windows/macOS/Android/iOS) — scans the network and identifies devices. The free version displays the brand, and the paid version displays the model.
- 🔍 Angry IP Scanner (cross-platform) - open source, supports plugins for model detection.
- 🔍 WiFi Analyzer (Android) - Shows information about the access point, including the model name (if broadcast).
How to use Advanced IP Scanner:
- Download and install the program.
- Start scanning (button Scan).
- In the results, find the line with your gateway (IP type
192.168.x.1). - In the column Manufacturer The brand and sometimes the model will be indicated.
If the utility only shows the brand (for example, ASUSTek Computer), but not the model, copy the MAC address and check it through online services like macvendors.com or wireshark.org/tools/oui-lookup.html.
6. Alternative methods: when nothing helps
If none of the above methods worked, try these options:
- 📞 Provider technical support - if the router was provided by the Internet provider (Rostelecom, MTS, Beeline), call support and provide the MAC address (indicated on the sticker). They will tell you the model.
- 🛒 Receipt or warranty card — if the router was purchased independently, the model is indicated in the documents.
- 🔎 Search by appearance - Take a photo of the router from the front and back, then find similar models through Google Images or forums (for example, 4PDA).
- 🔧 Disassembling the device — the model is sometimes indicated on the router board (for example, on the Wi-Fi chip). Carefully: This will void the warranty!
⚠️ Attention: If the router is connected to the Internet, but you don’t know the Wi-Fi password, reset it to factory settings using the button Reset (usually located in a small hole on the back panel). After resetting, the login information will become default (admin/admin), and you will be able to access the web interface. Minus: All network settings will have to be reconfigured.
7. Why is it important to know the exact router model?
Many users are limited to brand awareness (TP-Link, ASUS), but this is not enough for:
- 🔄 Firmware updates — firmware for TP-Link TL-WR841N V12 not suitable for TL-WR841N V14.
- 🛠️ Specific function settings - For example, ASUS RT-AX88U supports AiMesh, and RT-AC66U - No.
- 🔌 Selection of compatible accessories — antennas, power adapters, or USB modems may differ even within the same line.
- 📡 Wi-Fi coverage optimization - different models have different signal transmission characteristics (for example, Keenetic Ultra more powerful Keenetic Lite).
- 🔒 Eliminating vulnerabilities - critical bugs (for example,
CVE-2021-20090For TP-Link) affect only specific versions.
💡 Example: The user is looking for instructions for D-Link DIR-300, but his model is actually DIR-300NRU B7The standard firmware isn't compatible, and after updating, the router becomes bricked. Knowing the exact model helps avoid such errors.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about determining your router model
Is it possible to find out the router model if it doesn't turn on?
Yes, if the data sticker is still on the case. If not, try finding the receipt, box, or photos of the device. As a last resort, disassemble the router and inspect the markings on the board (but this will void the warranty).
How to distinguish a router from a modem?
A router distributes Wi-Fi and has multiple Ethernet ports (usually 4 LAN + 1 WAN). A modem often has only one port (for connecting the ISP's cable) and may not support Wi-Fi. Hybrid devices (modem and router) are usually labeled as Gateway or Combo.
Why is the router's web interface in a foreign language?
Many routers have an English interface by default. To change the language, go to the settings (usually Settings → Language) and select Russian. If this option is not available, download the Russian-language firmware from the manufacturer's website.
Is it possible to determine the router model by serial number?
Yes, but not always. Some manufacturers (for example, MikroTik) encode the model in the serial number. Try entering the serial number into a search engine or on the brand's support website. For most consumer routers (TP-Link, ASUS) does not disclose the model's serial number.
What should I do if I have a router from my ISP and all the settings are locked?
Contact your provider's technical support team—they are obligated to provide model information and, if necessary, access to the settings. If the router is leased, attempting to do so yourself may violate the terms of the contract.