Knowing your IP address in Windows 10 is a fundamental skill for troubleshooting network issues, setting up local servers, or managing remote connections. This unique numerical label acts as your computer's identifier on any network, and locating it is a straightforward process. This guide provides multiple methods to find both your local and public IP addresses, ensuring you have the right information for any situation.
Understanding Local vs. Public IP Addresses
Before diving into the "how-to," it is essential to understand the two types of IP addresses you might need. Your local IP, also known as the private IP, is assigned by your router and is used for communication within your home or office network. This is the address you will find using the primary methods described below. In contrast, your public IP is the address your router presents to the wider internet, often assigned by your Internet Service Provider. You will need to check an external website to see this address, as it is not displayed within Windows 10's settings.
Finding Your Local IP Address via Settings
The most direct route to your local IP address is through the Windows Settings app, which provides a clean, visual interface. This method is ideal for users who prefer a graphical environment over typing commands. Follow these steps to retrieve your information quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide
Open the Settings app by pressing Windows Key + I on your keyboard.
Navigate to Network & Internet .
Select Status from the left-hand menu.
Scroll down and click the View your network properties button.
Locate your active connection (either Wi-Fi or Ethernet ) and look for the IPv4 address field.
Using the Command Prompt
For users who favor speed and efficiency, the Command Prompt offers a quick text-based alternative. This method retrieves the same information as the Settings app but bypasses the graphical interface. It is a reliable technique that IT professionals often utilize for its precision and lack of clicks.
Executing the Command
Press Windows Key + R , type cmd , and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
Type the command ipconfig and press Enter .
Look for the section labeled Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapter Ethernet .
The IPv4 Address listed there is your local IP address.
Finding Your Public IP Address
Since Windows 10 does not display your public IP address in system settings, you must rely on external resources. This address is determined by your router and reflects the location of your entire network to the internet. Checking this is useful for verifying VPN connections or understanding your network's outbound identity.
Web-Based Lookup
Open your preferred web browser.
Navigate to a trusted site like whatismyip.com or ipinfo.io .
The website will instantly display your public IP address at the top of the page.
