Indiana University
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ARCHIVED: Specifying your Windows computer's IP address

Your computer's IP address is assigned to you, whether it is dynamically assigned by a network server (DHCP), or physically by your network administrator. It is a good idea to make sure you know what your IP address should be before following these steps, and you may need administrative rights over your computer to effect changes. If you are uncertain, contact your network administrator.

Note: At Indiana University, the University Information Security Office (UISO) recommends that you normally refrain from running your Windows computer as an administrator. For more, see What is the principle of least privilege?

To manually configure your computer's IP address, follow the appropriate steps below.

  1. Open Network Connections:

    1. In Windows 8, 7, and Vista, in the notification area (in Desktop view in Windows 8), right-click the network connection icon and select Open Network and Sharing Center.

      In Windows XP, from the Start menu, open the Control Panel.

    2. In Windows 8 and 7, click Change adapter settings.

      In Vista, click Manage Network Connections.

      In XP, double-click Network Connections.

  2. Choose the connection or adapter for which you want to set the IP address, if applicable. In a large majority of cases, this is either Local Area Connection or Wireless Network Connection. Double-click it to open the connection.

  3. In the connection status box, click Properties.

  4. Click to highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) (in XP, Internet Protocol TCP/IP), and then click Properties.

  5. Select Use the following IP address, and enter your computer's IP address. You will also need to enter your subnet mask and default gateway; if you are uncertain of these settings, contact your network administrator.

  6. Click OK and then OK again to save your settings.