Command Reference
ipconfig
Gnojo Analysis
Understanding ipconfig
What This Command Does
ipconfig is usually one of the first commands to run when troubleshooting Windows network connectivity. It quickly shows whether the computer received a usable IP configuration and which gateway and DNS servers it is attempting to use.
When to Use It
Use ipconfig when internet access is unavailable, DHCP problems are suspected, DNS settings may be incorrect, or you need to verify the active adapter configuration.
What to Look For
IPv4 Address
The current IPv4 address assigned to the network adapter.
Subnet Mask
Identifies which portion of the address represents the local network.
Default Gateway
The router or device used to reach other networks.
DNS Servers
The servers used to translate hostnames into IP addresses.
How to Interpret the Results
IPv4 begins with 169.254
Windows could not obtain an address from DHCP. Check the network connection, adapter status, router, switch, or DHCP service.
Default Gateway is blank
The computer may communicate locally but cannot reach other networks or the internet.
DNS Servers are missing or unexpected
The network may be reachable while website names still fail to resolve.
Common Beginner Mistake
A common mistake is checking only whether Wi-Fi says 'connected.' The adapter can appear connected while still having an invalid address, missing gateway, or incorrect DNS configuration.
Permissions
Administrator access is not normally required for this command.
Risk and impact
The release option temporarily removes the adapter's DHCP address and may interrupt network access until the address is renewed.
Summary
Displays TCP/IP configuration details for Windows network adapters.
Syntax
ipconfig [options]Examples
ipconfigDisplays a basic summary of active network adapters.
ipconfig /allDisplays detailed configuration, including DNS, DHCP, MAC address, and lease information.
ipconfig /releaseReleases the current DHCP-assigned IPv4 address.
ipconfig /renewRequests a new IPv4 address from the DHCP server.
ipconfig /flushdnsClears the local DNS resolver cache.
Permissions
Administrator required: No
Viewing configuration does not usually require administrator access. Some repair operations may require an elevated Command Prompt.
Risk and Impact
Risk level: Moderate
Changes the system: Yes
The release option temporarily removes the adapter's DHCP address and may interrupt network access until the address is renewed.
Supported Platforms
Important Output Fields
IPv4 Address
The current IPv4 address assigned to the network adapter.
Subnet Mask
Identifies which portion of the address represents the local network.
Default Gateway
The router or device used to reach other networks.
DNS Servers
The servers used to translate hostnames into IP addresses.
DHCP Enabled
Shows whether the adapter receives its configuration automatically from DHCP.
Physical Address
The MAC address assigned to the network adapter.
Common Errors
Media disconnected
The adapter does not currently have an active network connection.
Access is denied
The selected option may require an elevated Command Prompt.
Related Articles
These Gnojo articles use or explain this command.
Checking an Ethernet Connection
A wired Ethernet connection depends on a secure physical connection between the computer and the network device. A loose, damaged, or disconnected cable can prevent the computer from reaching the network.
View ArticleHow to Refresh DNS and Restart Windows
Use this article to perform the VPN workflow's bounded DNS refresh. It clears only the local Windows DNS resolver cache with ipconfig /flushdns, then restarts Windows and retests the VPN. It does not reset Winsock or TCP/IP and does not release or renew network addressing.
View ArticleInspect Windows Network Configuration with ipconfig
The ipconfig command displays Windows TCP/IP configuration. It can show addresses, subnet masks, default gateways, DNS servers, and DHCP details that help diagnose connectivity problems. Its release, renew, and flush options change network state and should be used only when the symptom justifies them.
View ArticleRelated Commands
Continue troubleshooting with related diagnostic commands.
Official References
ipconfig
Microsoft Learn · Official Documentation