How to Trace an IP Route

Troubleshooting connection issues on a TCP/IP network in many cases includes finding the device that is not forwarding traffic, understanding the path used to forward traffic or gaining a better understanding of latency along the network path. Performing a trace along an IP route can provide this information.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Windows 7 computer
• IP address of network path endpoint computer or device

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button; then click the "Search" box and type "cmd" and press the "Enter" key.

2. Type "tracert x.x.x.x" replacing the "x.x.x.x" with the IP address of the network path endpoint device or computer.

3. Review the output of the "tracert" command. Each line displayed is a device along the network path (in most cases a router). Note any significant increases in latency listed at the beginning of each line and also if any line displays "* * * *." Excess latency can cause issues with network applications and "* * * *" along the path signifies a non-responsive device, in some cases a firewall. Also, if "* * * *" is displayed after a certain point and the network path endpoint is not displayed after that line, then there is most likely a disconnection in the network path or a firewall or other filtering device blocking the network traffic.

References

• Exit109: Using Traceroute