Learn how to quickly identify your computer’s IP address using the built-in Windows IPConfig command.
Introduction
When troubleshooting network connectivity issues, connecting to printers, setting up remote access, or speaking with technical support, one of the first pieces of information you may be asked for is your computer’s IP address.
Windows includes a simple command called IPConfig that displays network information, including your current IP address, default gateway, and DNS settings.
This guide explains how to use the command and understand the results.
What Is an IP Address?
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique identifier assigned to your device on a network.
Typical examples include:
192.168.1.100
10.0.0.25
172.16.5.10
Think of an IP address as the network equivalent of a house number. It allows devices to communicate with each other and access services across the network.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Press Windows + R
Type CMD
Example Output:
Look for IPv4 Address, this is your computer’s current network address.
Understanding the Results
IPv4 Address: 192.168.1.185
This is your computers network address
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
The subnet mask defines which devices are considered part of the same network.
For most home users, this value can simply be noted for troubleshooting purposes.
Default Gateway: 192.168.1.1
This is usually your broadband router or network gateway.
Your computer sends internet-bound traffic to this device.
View More Detailed Information
For additional information, use:
Ipconfig /all
This command displays:
- Network adapter names
- MAC addresses
- DHCP information
- DNS servers
- Lease information
Common Troubleshooting Tips
No IPv4 Address Displayed
If no IPv4 address is shown, your device may not be connected to the network.
Check:
✅ Network cable connected
✅ Wi-Fi enabled
✅ Router powered on
Address Starts With 169.254
This usually indicates your computer was unable to obtain an address from the router or DHCP server.
Try:
- Restarting the router
- Disconnecting and reconnecting Wi-Fi
- Running:
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
Quick Reference
| Command | Purpose |
|---|---|
ipconfig | Display basic network information |
ipconfig /all | Display detailed network information |
ipconfig /release | Release current IP address |
ipconfig /renew | Request a new IP address |
Key Takeaway
The Windows IPConfig command is one of the quickest ways to identify your computer’s current IP address and network settings. Whether you’re troubleshooting a connection issue, configuring a printer, or speaking with technical support, knowing how to use ipconfig is a useful skill that every computer user should have.
Images to Include
- Windows Run dialog with cmd entered.
- Command Prompt window showing the ipconfig command.
- Annotated screenshot highlighting:
- IPv4 Address
- Subnet Mask
- Default Gateway
- Example output from ipconfig /all showing detailed adapter information.