How to - Release/renew an IP address - Windows 7

Windows 7: How to Release and Renew Your IP Address

If your Windows 7 computer is showing "Limited or No Connectivity" or you're having trouble reaching the internet, the issue is often a "stale" IP address. Your computer might be holding onto old information that no longer matches your router.

Performing a Release and Renew tells your PC to drop its current IP address and request a fresh one from the router. It is the digital equivalent of hanging up a glitchy phone call and redialing.

How to Release and Renew via Command Prompt

1. Click the Start button and type cmd in the search box.

2. Right-click on the cmd icon and select Run as Administrator.

3. In the black window, type the following command and press Enter:

   ipconfig /release (Your internet will disconnect completely at this step; this is normal!)

4. Now, type this command and press Enter:

   ipconfig /renew

5. Wait a few seconds. Windows will communicate with your router, and you should see a new IP address appear.