How to Find Your Device's IP Address

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Overview

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a number assigned to your device when it connects to a network. It helps devices communicate with each other and access network services.

When troubleshooting network or internet connection problems, Cedar Crest College IT Support may ask you to provide your device's IP address.

Follow the instructions below to find your IP address.

Windows 11

  1. Click Start and open Settings.
  2. Select Network & internet.
  3. Select Wi-Fi if you are using a wireless connection, or Ethernet if you are connected with a network cable.
  4. For Wi-Fi, select the network you are currently connected to.
  5. Scroll to the network properties section.
  6. Locate IPv4 address.

The number displayed is your device's IPv4 address.

Alternative method using Command Prompt:

  1. Press Windows + R.
  2. Type cmd and press Enter.
  3. Enter the following command:
  4. ipconfig
  5. Press Enter.
  6. Locate your active Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter.
  7. Find the IPv4 Address entry.

Note: Your computer may display several network adapters. Use the IP address associated with your active network connection.

Mac (macOS)

  1. Click the Apple menu in the upper-left corner.
  2. Select System Settings.
  3. Select Network.
  4. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.
  5. For Wi-Fi, select Details next to your connected network.
  6. Select TCP/IP, if necessary.
  7. Locate the IP address.

The displayed address is the IP address assigned to your Mac on that network.

iPhone or iPad

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Wi-Fi.
  3. Locate the wireless network you are currently connected to.
  4. Tap the Information icon (ⓘ) next to the network name.
  5. Scroll to the IPv4 Address section.
  6. Locate IP Address.

Note: Your iPhone or iPad must be connected to a Wi-Fi network to display its Wi-Fi IP address.

Android Phones and Tablets

The steps may vary depending on your device manufacturer and Android version.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Network & internet, Connections, or Wi-Fi.
  3. Tap the wireless network you are currently connected to.
  4. Select Network details, View more, or Advanced, if available.
  5. Locate IP address.

On some Samsung devices, you can find this information under:

Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi → Gear icon next to the connected network → View more

If you cannot find the IP address, search your device's Settings for IP address.

Chromebook (ChromeOS)

  1. Click the time in the bottom-right corner.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Select Network.
  4. Select Wi-Fi.
  5. Select the wireless network you are currently connected to.
  6. Expand Network, if necessary.
  7. Locate IP address.

The IP address displayed is the address assigned to your Chromebook on that network.

Understanding Your IP Address

Your device may display different types of IP addresses.

IPv4 Address

An IPv4 address usually contains four groups of numbers separated by periods.

Example: 192.168.1.25

This is typically the address IT Support will request when troubleshooting your local network connection.

IPv6 Address

An IPv6 address is longer and contains letters, numbers, and colons.

Example: 2001:db8::1

Your device may have both an IPv4 and IPv6 address.

Private vs. Public IP Addresses

  • A private IP address identifies your device within a local network.
  • A public IP address identifies an internet-facing connection and may be shared by multiple devices.

The instructions in this article show how to find your device's local IP address.

Important: Your IP address may change when you connect to a different network, restart your device, or reconnect to Wi-Fi.

What If My Device Does Not Have an IP Address?

If your device is connected to Wi-Fi but does not display a valid IP address, or shows an address beginning with 169.254, it may not have received an IPv4 address from the network.

Try the following:

  1. Disconnect from Wi-Fi.
  2. Wait a few seconds.
  3. Reconnect to the wireless network.
  4. Restart your device if necessary.
  5. Check your IP address again.

If you are connected to FalconNet and continue having problems, refer to the appropriate FalconNet connection and troubleshooting article for your device.

Looking for Your MAC Address Instead?

A MAC address (Media Access Control address) is a hardware or network interface identifier. It is different from an IP address.

If IT Support asks you for your MAC address, Wi-Fi address, or physical address, see:

Find the MAC Address for Your Device

That article includes instructions for computers, mobile devices, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and streaming devices.

Still Need Help?

If you cannot find your IP address or are experiencing network connectivity problems, submit an IT Support Request.

Include:

  • Your device type and operating system
  • Whether you are using Wi-Fi or Ethernet
  • Your location on campus
  • Any IP address or error message displayed
  • Troubleshooting steps you have already attempted

For your security, do not include passwords or verification codes in your support request.

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