How to Refresh Your IP Address on a Windows Computer

Refreshing your IP address can help resolve network issues, fix connectivity problems, or obtain a new IP from your router or ISP. In this guide, we’ll show you how to refresh your IP address using Command Prompt and by rebooting your home network.

Method 1: Using the Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt: Click the Start Menu, type cmd, and select Command Prompt.
2. Check Your Current IP Address: Type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig

Look for the IPv4 Address under your active network connection.

3. Release the Current IP: Type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /release

This will disconnect your computer from the current IP address.

4. Wait for a Few Minutes: To improve the chances of getting a new IP address, wait at least 5 minutes before renewing.
5. Renew the IP Address: Type the following command and press Enter:

ipconfig /renew

Your computer will now request a new IP address from the router.

6. Verify the New IP Address: Run the following command to check if your IP has changed:

ipconfig

Method 2: Rebooting Your Home Network

If the Command Prompt method doesn’t work, you can try rebooting your network:

1. Shut Down Your Computer: Turn off your PC completely.
2. Unplug the Modem and Router: Disconnect both devices from power.
3. Wait for at Least 5 Minutes: Some ISPs assign new IP addresses when the modem has been offline for a few minutes.
4. Reconnect the Modem First: Plug it in and wait for it to fully power up.
5. Reconnect the Router (If Applicable): After the modem is online, plug in the router.
6. Turn on Your Computer: Boot up your PC and reconnect to the internet.

Now, your network should assign a new local IP, and in some cases, your ISP may also provide a new public IP address.

Why Refresh Your IP Address?

• Fixes network connection issues.
• Resolves conflicts with other devices on the network.
• Allows you to obtain a new local IP address.
• May help bypass some network restrictions.

By following these methods, you can successfully refresh your IP address and resolve common connectivity issues on Windows.