How to Find the IP Address of Your PC

In earlier versions of Windows, finding your PC's IP address was easy--simply type a short command line into the "Run" field and it popped up, along with your computer's other networking information. Finding your IP address in Vista's just as easy, and you won't have to use DOS or other command windows to do it.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get to the Control Panel. The easiest way to do this is by clicking on its shortcut in the Start Menu. There may also be a Control Panel shortcut on your desktop, depending on your individual settings.

2. Choose "Network and Internet" from the short list of general icons that appear. If you're using the "Classic" Control Panel view, double-click the "Internet Options" icon.

3. Launch the Network and Sharing Center. This is your one-stop shop for monitoring your PC's Internet connections and network settings.

4. Click the link labeled "View Status" in the "Connection" field.

5. Open the "Details" window by clicking its box under the "General" connection settings heading. Then, look for your IP address in the list of settings that appear.

Tips & Warnings

• Know that your IP address may change if you're using a wireless router. Unless you've asked the router to assign a specific address to your PC, it'll give you a fresh number every time you connect to the network.

• You can also find your IP address by typing "ipconfig" into the command prompt. To run the command prompt, type "command" into the Start Menu and click its shortcut.