When setting up a network, multiple computers or devices are able to connect to the internet without any problem. However, sometimes an issue may occur that will leave one or more devices unable to connect. In some cases, a network administrator may have to troubleshoot different settings to find and resolve the problem. Luckily, though, in other cases, an error message that pops up will pinpoint the issue. This is the case when an Windows IP address conflict occurs. If you’ve received this message on your computer or devices, read on to find out why this happens and how you can easily resolve this problem with a few quick solutions.
What Is a Windows IP Address Conflict?
PCs running Windows OS, when configured properly, will connect to the internet – perfect for a home or business network. However, one of the errors that can appear is a Windows IP address conflict. Before getting into the solutions, it’s important to understand exactly what this error means and why it may have occurred.
Every computer or device on a LAN network has an IP address, or its own unique identifier. The easiest way to understand an IP address is to think about postal addresses. Every home and business is identified by its unique address. This is the same for IP addresses. In short, it identifies every device connected to the internet.
Every device should have its own address, but sometimes, two devices may attempt to connect under the same IP. This is when an IP address conflict occurs. Because both devices cannot share an IP address, neither will be able to connect to the internet.
On Windows computers, a pop-up with an error message will indicate that this is the problem. Error messages may vary depending upon what version of Windows is being used.
Why Does a Windows IP Address Conflict Occur?
There are a few different causes for this type of conflict. It is possible that the system administrator set the same static IP address for two different devices. If the IP was assigned through a DHCP server, the system may have assigned the same address to two devices. A malfunction may also occur through the DHCP server that assigns the same address to multiple devices when a device awakes from hibernation. Finally, the problem may have originated from the ISP, who assigned the same IP to two different devices. In order to figure out exactly what caused the issue, a little bit of troubleshooting is required.
Troubleshooting Windows IP Address Conflicts
There are a few steps that can be taken to resolve these error messages. One of the first and easiest solutions you can try is to release and renew the IP address. This can be easily done through the Command Prompt window. Run as administrator, and then enter the following commands:
netsh int ip reset c:\resetlog.txt
Enter
ipconfig /release
Enter
ipconfig /renew
Enter
If this doesn’t resolve the error, check fixed settings to make sure that each IP address for every device is unique. If not, IP addresses that are the same will need to be changed. This can be done by the system administrator.
You can also change your settings from static to dynamic IP. Right click on Local Area Network or Wireless Network Connection (depending on how your network is set up.) Next, double click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), and select the option to obtain an IP address automatically. Choose the option to obtain DNS server address automatically, and save all changes.
The problem may be because of your router and a malfunction of DHCP. If you believe your equipment may be the cause of your problems or the other options have not worked for you, you can try to resolve the error by updating your router’s firmware.
Final Notes
Getting an error pop-up and being unable to connect to your network can be frustrating. However, by understanding the types of errors that can occur and the steps you can talk to resolve them, your network will be back online again in no time!
Do you have a question about Windows IP address conflict errors? Do you have any suggestions or solutions? Leave them below!
Sources
https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-ip-address-conflict-818381
https://appuals.com/solved-windows-has-detected-an-ip-address-conflict/