You can reset your IP address using a few simple commands in the Windows Command Prompt. This process refreshes your computer’s connection to the local network.
đź’» How to Reset Your IP Address with Command Prompt
Follow these steps to release your current IP address and request a new one from your router:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Press the
Windowskey, type “cmd”, right-click on Command Prompt, and select “Run as administrator”.
- Press the
- Release Your Current IP
- Type
ipconfig /releaseand press Enter. Your internet connection will temporarily drop.
- Type
- Renew Your IP Address
- Type
ipconfig /renewand press Enter. Your computer will be assigned a new IP address.
- Type
- Clear DNS Cache (Recommended)
- Type
ipconfig /flushdnsand press Enter. This clears old domain name information and can help resolve website connection issues.
- Type
đź”§ Other Reset Methods
| Method | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Network Reboot | Unplug router & modem for 5+ minutes. | Getting a new public IP from your ISP; fixing general connection issues. |
| Netsh Commands | Run netsh int ip reset in Command Prompt (Admin). | Fixing deeper Windows network stack corruption. |
đź’ˇ Important Things to Know
- What Gets Reset: This method primarily changes your private IP address on your local network (e.g.,
192.168.1.20). Getting a new public IP (the one websites see) usually requires rebooting your router or using a VPN. - Automatic Assignment: In most home networks, a router (DHCP server) automatically assigns IP addresses. The
ipconfig /renewcommand simply requests a new one from this server.
If you’re still having network trouble after trying these steps, performing a network reboot (turning your modem and router off and on again) is often the most effective solution.
Ways to check my ipv4 public address