How Can I Find My IP Address?

Your IP address is a unique number that an Internet Service Provider assigns to the computers or components connected to a certain network. No two IP Addresses are assigned to the same computer. It consists of four sets of numbers separated by periods. It is important to know your IP address, especially if you are having network connection problems. Fortunately, you can find your IP address quickly whether you are using a PC or Mac.

Instructions

Windows 7

1. Click the network icon on the system tray next to the clock and select "Open Network and Sharing Center." A new window launches.

2. Click "Local Area Connection" if you want to view the IP address of a wired connection. You should see the IP address appear with a series of numbers such as the following: 1.160.10.240

3. Click "Wireless Network Connection" if you want to view the IP address of a wireless network connection. Click "Details." Your IP address will appear next to "IPv4 Address."

Windows Vista

1. Click the Windows "Start" menu. Right-click "Network" and click "Properties." This opens the Network and Sharing Center.

2. Click "View Status" next to the Local Area Connection section if you want to see the IP address of a wired connection. You should see the IP address appear with a series of numbers such as the following: 1.160.10.240.

3. Click "View Status" next to the Wireless Network Connection section. Click "Details." You should see the IP address next to "IPv4 IP Address.

Windows XP

1. Click the Windows "Start" menu. Right-click "My Network Places," then click "Properties."

2. Double-click "Local Area Connection" if you want to see the IP address of a wired connection. You should see the IP address appear with a series of numbers such as the following: 1.160.10.240.

3. Double-click "Wireless Network Connection" if you want to see the IP address of your wireless network connection. Click "Support" > "Detail." A new window launches. You should see your IP address in the new window.

Mac OS X 10.6 or 10.5

1. Click the "Apple" menu, then click "System Preferences." A new dialog box launches.

2. Select "Network" from the "View" menu to launch the network window.

3. Click your network connection port (e.g., Airport, modem or Ethernet). You should see your IP address under "Status."

Mac OS X 10.4 or 10.3

1. Click the "Apple" logo on the top. Select "Location" and select "Network Preferences."

2. Select "Network Status" next to "Show" in the "Network Preferences" windows. You should see your network status and your IP address displayed.

3. Close the Network Preferences window.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also check your IP address from the command prompt if you are using a Windows operating system. Click the "Start" menu, select "All Programs" > "Accessories" > "Command Prompt." Type "ipconfig" and press "Enter." You should see the IP address or IPv4 address.

References

• Indiana University Information Technology Series: How Do I Determine My Computer's IP Address?