How to find ip address on windows 11

The ultimate guide to locating your network details in Windows 11

Windows Guide 📅 Published: May 2026 ⏱️ 5 min read

Quick Answer

To find your local IP address in Windows 11, click the Start button and open Settings. Go to Network & internet, then click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet depending on your connection. Click your network's name and scroll down to the bottom to find your "IPv4 address."

Step-by-step guide with screenshots described

Whether you need to configure a local printer, set up port forwarding for gaming, or troubleshoot network issues, locating your IP address on Windows 11 is a fundamental skill. Here are the most straightforward methods to find both your local and public IP addresses.

Method 1: Using the Windows 11 Settings App (Local IP)

This is the most user-friendly way to find your local IP address assigned by your home router.

  1. Open Settings: Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard, or click the Start button and select the gear icon for Settings.
    [Screenshot described: The Windows 11 Start menu highlighting the Settings gear icon.]
  2. Navigate to Network Settings: On the left-hand sidebar, click on "Network & internet."
    [Screenshot described: The Windows 11 Settings app with the 'Network & internet' option selected on the left pane.]
  3. Select Your Connection Type: Choose either "Wi-Fi" or "Ethernet," depending on how your PC connects to your router. If using Wi-Fi, click "Hardware properties" or the name of your connected network.
    [Screenshot described: The Network & internet screen showing Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection options.]
  4. Locate the IPv4 Address: Scroll down the properties page until you see the list of network details. Look for the line labeled "IPv4 address" to find your local IP (e.g., 192.168.1.15).
    [Screenshot described: The network properties page with the 'IPv4 address' clearly highlighted.]

Method 2: Using the Command Prompt (Local IP)

For advanced users, the command line offers a faster route.

  1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
  2. Type ipconfig and press Enter.
  3. Look under your active connection (e.g., "Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi") for the "IPv4 Address."

Method 3: Finding Your Public IP Address

Windows 11 only displays your local network IP. To find the public IP address that the rest of the internet sees, you must use a web-based tool. Simply open your web browser (like Microsoft Edge or Chrome) and navigate to CheckWhatIsMyIP.com. Your public IP will be displayed instantly on the screen.

What this reveals / Why it matters

Your local IP address is essential for managing your home network. Without it, you wouldn't be able to log into your router's admin panel, map network drives, or play LAN games with family members. It acts as your PC's internal identifier within your household.

Your public IP address, on the other hand, is your digital fingerprint on the broader internet. Every website you visit logs this address. It reveals your geographic location—usually your city and internet service provider. Advertisers use this public IP to serve you targeted, location-based ads, while streaming platforms rely on it to enforce regional broadcasting restrictions. Because it acts as a return address for all your internet traffic, maintaining awareness of your public IP is critical for digital privacy.

How to protect yourself

Protecting your public IP address on Windows 11 is crucial to prevent ISPs, advertisers, and malicious actors from tracking your online activities. The most reliable defense is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) client designed for Windows.

A VPN application encrypts your internet connection at the system level, routing all your web traffic, game data, and downloads through a secure server. This replaces your actual public IP address with the VPN server's address. When choosing a VPN for Windows 11, look for features like a "kill switch" that automatically cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your real IP from leaking accidentally.

Check yours free right now

Are you ready to see what the internet sees when your Windows 11 PC goes online? Skip the complicated settings menus and get a comprehensive breakdown of your network identity instantly.

CTA: Check your public IP address free at checkwhatismyip.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my Windows 11 IP address using the Command Prompt?

Yes. Open the Command Prompt, type ipconfig, and press Enter. Look for the "IPv4 Address" line under your active connection adapter to find your local IP.

Why does my Windows 11 PC have both an IPv4 and IPv6 address?

IPv4 is the older, standard format for IP addresses, while IPv6 is the newer standard designed to accommodate the growing number of devices on the internet. Modern Windows PCs support both to ensure maximum compatibility with all networks.

Does restarting my Windows PC change its IP address?

Usually not. While your router assigns a dynamic IP that can change, DHCP leases typically last for several days. Merely rebooting your PC usually results in it keeping the same local IP address.