The Internet is vital for us, including our work and daily life. For example, we send e-mails, stream movies, download files, book tickets, and shop online. All these activities depend on the Internet.
If something is wrong with the connection, how frustrating it could be. In some situations, resetting the IP address can help solve connection problems. Here we provide basic knowledge about IP address and easy ways to reset it on your device.
Why Do I Need to Reset the IP Address?
A Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol(DHCP for short) assigns IP addresses. Your IP addresses won’t stay the same all the time. DHCP will give you a short lease, it’s a temporary IP address. When the lease time is over, this IP address will be changed.
A normal device will automatically renew the lease. However, sometimes there might appear some accidents. At this time, you have to reset the IP address. Otherwise, you can’t browse online normally
How to Reset the IP Address on Your Device?
On Windows 10/11
It is very easy, you can just refresh it via the Command prompt.
- Hit the Windows and the R key simultaneously to open the “Run” window.
- Type “CMD” and press Enter.
- Type ipconfig/release in the Command Prompt window then press Enter. Now you can see the IP configuration of your Windows computer. Go to the IPv4 or IPv6 address, that is your computer’s IP address
- Type ipconfig/renew and press Enter. Now you have been assigned a new IP address and you can check it in the section we mentioned above.
- Type Exit and press Enter. The window will be closed.
On Mac
- Close your internet apps.
- Press the Apple menu then go to System Settings.
- On the left side navigation bar, select Network.
- You can tap the network that needs a new IP address and then click Details next to it.
- Scroll down to press TCP/IP and tap Renew DHCP Lease.
- You just need to press OK to complete the whole process.
On Router
Be aware that resetting the IP Address might change your IP Address.
- Turn off your computer and disconnect the network.
- Disconnect the power cable from your modem, and wait at least 30 seconds.
- Unplug your router.
- Wait patiently for about two hours.
- Plug your modem and router back.
- Open your computer and connect to the network.
Bonus Tip: Use VPN to Change IP Address
In addition, if you want to change your IP Address, the easiest way is to use a VPN. LightningX VPN not only satisfies your needs but is also a reliable VPN.
- LightningX VPN can encrypt your data. Following the zero-logging policy, you can browse online anonymously.
- With 2000+ servers, you can get access to other region’s videos of streaming services.
- Easy to use and navigate, you just need to press the start button to access unlimited speed.
- LightningX VPN allows you to connect 3 devices at the same time, compatible with a computer, phone, or tablet.
- If you still hesitate to decide whether LightningX VPN can satisfy your needs, it also offers a free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Price and Plan
| LightningX VPN | ||
| 1 Day | $0.99/day | / |
| 1 Month | $0.19/day | $5.99/total |
| 3 Months+ 1 Month Free | $0.13/day | $15.99/total |
| 1 Year + 1 Year Free | $0.08/day | $59.99/total |
What is an IP Address?
An IP address stands for Internet Protocol address. It is a string of unique numbers that is assigned to a device connected to a network. Whether you are watching documentaries or talking with someone, your software follows protocols to get information transformed and returned. The location used is the IP address.
It implies the information about your location. You can find your IP address on your device. If you travel to other countries, your home IP address won’t follow you. Because you are connecting to a different network to access the Internet.
Related: Understand Different Types of IP Addresses: Functions and Uses
IPv4 & IPv6
IP addresses have two versions, which are IPv4 (IP address version type 4) and IPv6 (IP address version type 6). IPv4 uses a 32-bit address format and is available for more than 4 billion addresses. As the Internet develops, IPv4 can no longer satisfy the needs.
On the contrary, IPv6 can include more IP addresses by using a 128-bit address format. Besides, IPv6 provides an encryption for the address. Generally, IPv6 is faster than IPv4.
Four Types of IP Addresses
Public IP Address
A public IP address is assigned to a device by the internet service provider (ISP). Usually, this device is your router.
Private IP Address
A private IP Address is assigned by your network router. All devices that connect to the same Internet network have a private IP address. It helps them communicate with each other.
Static IP Address
A static IP address is permanent. It is suitable for devices that need a consistent address. For example, businesses require an IP address to keep their servers,
Dynamic IP Address
On the other hand, a Dynamic IP Address is temporarily assigned by the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server. It is not always the same. In most circumstances, a Dynamic IP Address will be assigned to computers or smartphones.
Related: How to Change VPN Location – A Detailed Guide
What If Resetting the IP Address Doesn’t Work?
Diagnose Windows Network
- Right-click on your network icon in the taskbar.
- Click Troubleshoot problems.
- The Diagnostics tool will automatically detect network configuration.
Reinstall the network adapter
- Click the Windows and the X key simultaneously to open the context window.
- Choose Device Manager.
- Find Network adapters.
- Right-click the Network adapters and choose Uninstall.
- Reboot your computer.
- Open Device Manager, then hit on the Action menu.
- Click Scan for hardware changes.
Conclusion
In this article, we detail everything about resetting an IP Address. Hope it can solve your connection problems. Enjoy your online browsing.
