How to Use the Windows Network Repair Command to Fix Default Gateway

Network connections require constant communication to ensure the pathway between devices stays open. Improper device configuration, loss of connectivity, poor wireless signals and the interference of other network adapters can cause your computer to lose its link to the default gateway. If your network connection is no longer functioning properly, resetting the Internet Protocol configuration will cause the adapter to reconnect to its gateway.

Instructions

1. Press the "Start" button on the taskbar.

2. Click "Run" if you are using Windows XP or earlier. Windows Vista and later users will need to place the cursor in the Search bar at the bottom of the menu.

3. Enter the text "cmd" in the text box and press "Enter."

4. Type "ipconfig /renew" to reset your network adapter. This will re-establish a connection to the default gateway.

5. Verify your connection to the gateway by entering the command "ipconfig /all". If there is a connection, there will be an Internet Protocol address specified on the output next to the "Default Gateway" label.

Tips & Warnings

• Your default gateway will change if you connect to another network or use a dial-up modem to establish a new connection. There can be only one active gateway on a computer.

References

• Microsoft: How to Troubleshoot TCP/IP Connectivity in Windows XP
• Microsoft: Ipconfig