How To Fix 169.254 Ip Address

If your computer is set to Obtain an IP Address Automatically and it cannot locate a DHCP server, then it will likely produce an IP address similar to this 169.254.x.x IP Address The DHCP server in most home networks will be the router or modem. Some modems are a combination router and modem, so you may only have one device. In either case, the router controls DHCP. Your Windows computer has to get some type of IP address for a DHCP server. When the process fails, it gives up and uses Automatic Private IP Addressing (APIPA) to generate its own. This will often result in your computer being unable to connect to the Internet or see other computers on its local network. This 169.254.x.x IP Address problem can be caused by numerous things.

How To Fix 169.254.x.x IP Address Problem

If the computer network was working then quit:

Release and renew the IP Address. Go to Start>Run and type cmd and hit OK. At the prompt, type ipconfig /release and then reboot. You could just type ipconfig /renew next, but rebooting is more thorough.
If that doesn't work, release the IP again and shutdown. Next power cycle the modem and router. Power cycling the network will often fix many issues with IP addresses and other connectivity problems.

If this is a new installation:

Confirm the router's SSID and the computer's network ID are the same.
Confirm the router is set to function as a DHCP server.
Confirm that the cables are straight-through and not cross-over.
If wireless, confirm the signal strength is strong enough.
Try reinstalling or updating the network adapter drivers.
Replace the network adapter.

Need Help Resolving IP Address Problem

If you have more questions about fixing the 169.254.x.x IP address issue, be sure to visit our free computer repair message boards and ask your question under our networking section. Members of the forums include tech professionals that are accustomed to dealing with Automatic Private IP Addressing issues, as well as other computer users that may have experienced and resolved this issue in the past. Or read more on IP Addresses here.