Advanced network troubleshooting: IP address configuration.
If your computer has trouble connecting to the internet, the IP configuration is often to blame. Here, we'll take a closer look at your IP address and any potential problems and solutions.
What is My IP Address?
vAn IP address is a unique series of number and periods that identifies your computer or device. IP addresses are usually set automatically, but can also be changed in your computer's settings.
Configuring Your IP Address
Go ahead and open your command prompt on your Windows device (if you are unfamiliar with the command prompt, make sure to type in only the words and commands included within this article).
First, we will identify your network and device's IP information. Type ipconfig /all and press enter.
Look at the line that says DHCP Enabled. If it says no, then at some point someone configured a static IP address instead of an automatic one. When in doubt, it's best to reset the DHCP to automatically assign your IP address. To fix this, read below on how to enable DHCP.
If your DHCP is enabled, then it's time to determine if your subnet mask is correct. The easiest way to do this is to boot up a second device and run the ipconfig /all command. Compare the subnet mask and make sure this line is the same on both devices. If not, there is an issue with your subnet mask that needs further attention.
Assuming the subnet mask is correct, we will look at your IPv4 address along with your default gateway. On your device, the first three numbers of these two lines should be the same, while the last number should be different. Double-check on a second device to make sure the first three sets of numbers of the IPv4 address and default gateway are the same.
If DHCP enabled reads yes, you're on the correct subnet and your IPv4 and default gateway correctly compare, then your IP address is correct.
Enabling DHCP (Windows 10)
Let's make sure your computer is set to automatically obtain an IP address.
- Right-click the network icon located on the Windows Taskbar and then click on Open Network and Sharing Center.
- Click Change adapter settings on the left side of the window
- Right-click on Local Area Connection or Wireless Networking Adapter and click on Properties
- Scroll through and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties
- Click Obtain an IP address automatically and then click OK
