How to Find Your IP Address in Windows 7
By Joshua Phillips
Your Internet Protocol address is a set of numbers assigned to your computer when it accesses the Internet. It's rarely necessary to know what your IP address is; however, there are times when you must. For example, if you are hosting a PC multiplayer game, you must give other players your IP address so they can connect to your computer. When using Windows 7, there are two ways you can find your IP address: through the command prompt or through the Network and Sharing Center.
Using the Command Prompt
Step 1
Open the Start menu and click "All Programs."
Step 2
Click "Accessories."
Step 3
Click "Command Prompt" to open the command prompt window.
Step 4
Type "ipconfig" into the command prompt and press "Enter." The Windows IP Configuration data displays on-screen. Your IP address is the set of numbers listed next to IPv4.
Using the Network and Sharing Center
Step 1
Click the network connection icon located in your taskbar next to the system clock.
Step 2
Click "Open Network and Sharing Center."
Step 3
Click "Local Area Connection" to view the IP address if you are on a wired connection. If you are on a wireless connection, click "Wireless Network Connection." Both selections are located in the "View Your Active Networks" section next to "Connections."
Step 4
Click "Details" in the "Connection" section, and find your IP address next to the IPv4 entry in the list.
References
Tips
- The steps using the command prompt also apply to Windows XP and Vista.
- This is the IP address assigned to the computer you are currently using. On some networks, it is not the same as your public, Internet-facing IP address. The easiest way to find out your public IP address is to use a Web-based service, such as WhatIsMyIP, What's My IP Address or IP Chicken (see links in Resources).
Writer Bio
Joshua Phillips has done it all when it comes to video games: strategy guides, previews, reviews, in-depth interviews with developers and extensive public relations work. He has written for websites such as Hardcore Gaming 101 and MyInsideGamer.