IP conflict error on computer is not uncommon, especially in large computer networks with many access devices. Moreover, improperly configured subnets and IP addresses can easily cause IP conflicts, resulting in computers unable to access the network. In this case, we need to change the IP address for one of the two conflicting machines, and of course, the problem does not stop at changing the IP address to resolve the issue. In this article, Mytour will identify common scenarios, encountered errors, as well as ways to resolve IP conflict errors on computers.
IP conflict in LAN network
Resolving IP conflict error on computer, unable to access network due to IP conflict
Some common error messages when IP conflict occurs:
“There is an IP address conflict with another system on the network”: IP conflict with another system on the network
“This IP address is already in use on the network. Please reconfigure a different IP address.”: This IP address has been used. Please set up a different address.
Some causes leading to IP conflict
Having multiple computers configured with the same static IP address.
Method 1: Refreshing the IP address
Step 1: Refreshing the IP address on the computer using command prompt. Go to the Start menu and type CMD.
Step 2: When the command prompt window appears, enter the command to release the current IP address: 'ipconfig /release'. Depending on the number of adapters installed on the device, the system will display different results:
Note: If the computer is configured with a static IP address, the following error message will appear: The operation failed as no adapter is in the state permissible for this operation. In this case, proceed to Method 2.
Step 3: After deleting the old IP address, we will renew the IP address by entering the command: 'ipconfig /renew'
The new IP address will appear under the IPv4 Address line.
Method 2: Setting up a new static IP address
When using a static IP address, you can manually switch to a new IP address that does not conflict with other computers in the system, using DHCP to assign a new IP address automatically.
Step 1: Go to Control Panel => Network and Sharing Center. On the left column, select Change adapter settings.
Step 2: Right-click on the network being used by the computer. Select 'Properties'.
Step 3: In the window that appears, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then click the Properties button.
Step 4: Here, you can choose to let the system automatically obtain a new IP address from the DHCP server (select Obtain an IP address automatically) or manually enter a new static IP address (select: Use the following IP address).
If you're unsure how to set up a static IP, it's advisable to let the system automatically assign a new IP. DHCP will automatically scan for available IP addresses and assign a non-conflicting address to your computer.
If you've tried both methods above and still can't connect to the network, the issue may lie with the wireless router.
Method 3: Wireless Router
One of the simplest ways to resolve IP conflicts is to restart the wireless router.
When the router is left on continuously for weeks or months, errors will occur. Restarting the router resolves most of the encountered issues. After restarting the router, also restart your computer.
Less commonly, issues arise with the DHCP server when it assigns duplicate IP addresses to computers. In such cases, it's best to upgrade the router's firmware. Most computer users never upgrade their router's firmware, making IP conflicts more likely. While installing firmware may not be straightforward, if you're tech-savvy, it's worth trying at least once to refresh your aging router.
Here, Mytour has provided you with a guide on how to fix IP conflicts on your computer, allowing you to change to a new IP address to join the network. Understanding networks requires time and effort, such as configuring TCP/IP via CMD, a tool commonly used for computer network setup and configuration. If you want to further update your networking knowledge, you can learn about configuring TCP/IP via CMD to enhance your skills. Additionally, if your IP network encounters too many issues, you can reset it to its original state using Windows 10. For more information, please read the guide on how to reset the network to its original state after changing the IP.