How to Change a Network Address

The network address identifies a computer on a network.

The network address, or IP address, is a numerical value used by computers to identify and communicate with each other. The network address is assigned by a server or entered by the user. You will need administrative rights on the computer for which you want to change the network address.

Instructions

Windows Static

1. Go to the "Start" menu and select "Control Panel."

2. Go to "Network Connections" and right-click on the network card whose network address you want to change. Select "Properties."

3. Highlight "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click"Properties."

4. Enter your new network address in the "IP address" field.

5. Click "OK" to activate the new address.

Windows DHCP

1. Go to the "Start" menu and type "cmd" in the "Run" or "Search programs and files" field. Press "Enter."

2. Type "ipconfig /release" and press "Enter." Wait for the message that the IP was released before continuing.

3. Type "ipconfig /renew" to get a new network address.

Linux Static

1. Open a Terminal. If you are not "root" or don't have rights to the network system, type "su" and press "Enter," then type the root or superuser password.

2. Type "vi etc/sysconfig/networking/devices/ifcfg-XXX" where XXX is the network device you want to modify.

3. Press "a" and navigate to the line "IPADDR." Change the network address.

4. Press "!", then "wq" and press "Enter."

5. Type "ifdown XXX & ifup XXX" to activate the new network address.

Linux DHCP

1. Open a Terminal. If necessary, type "su" and press "Enter," then type the root or superuser password.

2. Type "ifdown XXX" where XXX is the network interface for which you want to renew the network address.

3. Type "ifup XXX" to get a new network address.

Tips & Warnings

• "ifconfig" (case sensitive) is the command that displays all the network cards and their assigned network addresses in Linux. "Ipconfig" does the same in Windows.

• Do not change the network address using a type of remote terminal or remote desktop as any mistake could cut that connection and prevent you from fixing the mistake.

References

• University of Wisconsin: Configuring TCP/IP
• Microspft: How to Change the IP Address of a Network Adapter in Windows Server 2003