How to Reset a Wireless IP

A buggy wireless adapter may benefit from an IP reset.

Wireless devices receive their configuration in the same manner as ethernet adapters and can be controlled with standard system network tools. There may be times when you wish to reset your wireless device's Internet Protocol address to fix a problematic network application, or re-establish the link with your router or access point. The Windows "ipconfig" utility allows you to reset the device's IP in a single command.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Wireless adapter
• Administrative account

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button. This will appear as a Windows logo or a button labeled "Start" on the task bar.

2. Open a command console by entering the run command "cmd." Windows 2003 and Windows XP machines will require you to enter this in the "Run" dialog accessed from the Start menu. Windows Vista and newer machines will allow you to type this command directly into the search bar.

3. Reset your IP configuration. In the black console window that has opened on your desktop, enter the command "ipconfig /renew" and wait for it to process.

   If the command completes without an error, your IP has been reset.

Tips & Warnings

• If you receive errors while resetting the IP, reset the router or access point with which the wireless adapter is communicating. If this does not work, disable and re-enable your wireless device.

• Resetting your device's IP may terminate any network connections you currently have. This means that chat programs, messengers and downloads will lose their connection.

References

• Microsoft: Ipconfig