Configuring, setting up, and altering static IP addresses facilitates connecting multiple computers and laptops, streamlining data copying, movement, and sharing.
Change IP Address for Windows 10, 8.1, and 7
There are two types of IP addresses: static and dynamic. Static IP addresses are configured through Windows network settings, while dynamic IPs are assigned by the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) - a service running on dedicated servers or specialized network hardware, such as routers.
How to Change IP Address in Windows 10/7/8.1
I. Changing IP Address in Windows 10
On Windows 10, you can follow the detailed steps for changing IP addresses in Windows 10 here.
II. Changing IP Address in Windows 8.1, 7
Step 1: First, go to the Control Panel and open the Network and Sharing Center.
Step 2: Next, select Change Adapter Settings
Step 3: The network interfaces present on your computer, including virtual connections or Bluetooth network devices, will be displayed.
Step 4: Right-click on the network adapter you wish to modify the IP address for and select Properties
Step 5: After selecting Properties, you'll see information about the network protocol used by current network connections. You can install or uninstall. To modify the IP address, right-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), or select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and choose Properties
Step 6:Under Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) Properties, choose General
Step 7:Select Use the following IP to configure settings and enter the necessary values for IP address, Subnet mask, and Default gateway.
To modify the Preferred DNS server and Alternate DNS server addresses, select Validate settings upon exit. Then, click OK
If you use your computer on multiple networks, you need to adjust the configuration to match one of those networks. To do this without changing your automatically obtained address, choose Alternate Configuration in Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) Properties
It's not too difficult, just a bit meticulous, and you can easily change IP addresses and configure network settings for Windows devices with a few simple steps. Additionally, you can explore various software options for IP change and anonymous web browsing on Windows—plenty of interesting choices.
If you want to learn how to change DNS on Windows 11, check it out here. You can easily and effectively change DNS settings.
- Explore more: How to change DNS settings on Windows 11