192.168.1.1 is an IP (Internet Protocol) address in the private address range from 192.168.0.0 to 192.168.255.255. This is also a default private address used by certain models of routers and (Network Address Translation) NAT devices. Routers are very important these days, as it provides wireless Internet and also to communicate with other computers in the network. The connection can be both wireless or wired, but the wireless one is usually advised. IP addresses are of great importance as they can be used simultaneously by different networks at the same time, this is why they are considered a crucial aspect of Internet technology. Every device or router in the network needs to have an IP address set, hence any router can be set to function by using 192.168.1.1 address. Although these addresses are set at the factory by the manufacturer, they can be altered by using certain administrative functions. All IP addresses are numeric in nature and divided into four parts. They are known as private addresses, because they cannot be used to identify your system outside your network, or on the Internet. 192.168.1.1, is generally used for the local networking purposes, and most famous within small organizations and individuals.

In case some of you are wondering what a NAT device is, here is the explanation.

A NAT device, for example a router, is basically used to intercept Internet communication between your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and your computer or a network of computers, that you have setup in your home. Private IP's cannot communicate on the Internet without the use of NAT.

Limitations of 192.168.1.1

Using 192.168.1.1 as a default IP by many hardware manufacturers can create problematic situations, this is because two routers on a single network cannot share a single address. This becomes a huge problem when you have many users who use the same address in other computers. Hence every time a new user is added, it is mandatory to make sure nobody else is using the same address, in order to avoid address conflict. Here is an example to make it easier to understand:

For example, if you have "x" router that uses 192.168.1.1 as an IP address, you cannot buy another "x" router, and proceed to use it on the same network. It can be used only if the IP address of one of the devices is changed. Therefore, make sure if and when you add a new device to your network, its default IP address is not already used by any other computer in your network, as every system will have its own assigned private IP address.

Another disadvantage is that people using this address should have access to NAT, otherwise they cannot access the Internet. You will sometimes find users having difficulties when they access the router through 192.168.1.1, this is because of invalid browser settings. (add relating to invalid browser settings)