If you are trying to set up a wireless printer, configure a new router, or troubleshoot a finicky network connection, tech support will almost always ask for your computer’s IP address.
Your IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique string of numbers that identifies your specific computer on your local home network. Fortunately, you do not need to be a networking expert to find it. Here is how to find your IP address in Windows 11 using both the Settings app and the Command Prompt.
Method 1: Using the Settings App (The Graphical Way)
If you prefer clicking through menus rather than typing commands, the Windows 11 Settings app provides a clear, easy-to-read network dashboard.
- Click the Start button on your taskbar.
- Select the Settings gear icon.
- Look at the navigation menu on the left side of the window and click on Network & internet.
- At the top of this screen, you will see your active connection (it will say either “Wi-Fi” or “Ethernet” depending on how you are connected). Click on Properties directly beneath your network’s name.
- Scroll down to the very bottom of the properties page until you reach the section titled Properties (yes, it is listed twice).
Look for the line that says IPv4 address. The number displayed next to it (which usually looks something like 192.168.1.15 or 10.0.0.5) is your computer’s local IP address.
Method 2: Using the Command Prompt (The Fast Way)
If you are comfortable with text interfaces, the Command Prompt is actually much faster than digging through the Settings menus. This is the method most IT professionals use.
- Click the Start button on your taskbar.
- Type the letters cmd into the search bar.
- Press Enter to open the black Command Prompt window.
- Type the following command exactly as written:
ipconfig - Press Enter.
The screen will fill with network data. Do not get overwhelmed; you only need to look for one specific line. Look under the section labeled “Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi” (if you are on Wi-Fi) or “Ethernet adapter” (if you are plugged into the wall).
Find the line that says IPv4 Address. The numbers to the right are your IP address.
Local IP vs. Public IP: What’s the Difference?
It is important to understand that both of the methods above reveal your Local IP Address. This is the private address assigned to your PC by your home Wi-Fi router.
If you are trying to host a Minecraft server or allow someone to remotely connect to your computer from across the country, they need your Public IP Address. This is the address your internet service provider assigns to your entire house.
To find your Public IP, you cannot look inside Windows. Simply open your web browser, go to Google, and search for “What is my IP”. Google will display your Public IP address at the very top of the search results.