How to Find Out If My IP Address Is Static or Dynamic?

An IP address is a range of numbers that define your computer's address on the network. When two computers communicate, they use the IP address to locate each other. The sender packages the communication package with the recipient's IP address. Static IP addresses are used for computers that always need the same range such as a server or router. Computers on the network are given dynamic IP address ranges. If your computer's network adapter is configured with Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, then it is a dynamic IP address. DHCP is the protocol used to assign IP addresses dynamically. To find out if your Windows machine has a dynamic IP address, you can use the MS-DOS prompt.

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button and select "Run." In the text box, enter "cmd" and press the "OK" button. If you are running an older Windows system like 98 or 95, enter "command" into the text box.

2. Type "ipconfig" and press "Enter." Ipconfig is an application that gives you information on your network connection. Typing in the command without any options shows you the basic IP address and information for your network card.

3. Type "ipconfig /all" and press "Enter." You now get a more detailed look at your network connection. View the information for your network card. One line item shown is "DHCP Enabled." If the information displayed is "Yes," then you have a dynamic IP address.

4. Type "ipconfig /renew" to receive a new IP address from the DHCP server. For most people, this server is provided by the Internet Service Provider. If you are on a corporate network, the IP address is assigned by the server set up by the administrator.

Tips & Warnings

• For an extra charge, most ISPs will give you a static IP address for your home Internet connection.

References

• Microsoft: IPconfig Syntax