How to Find Your IP Address on Windows 11: A Quick Guide for Aussies

Finding your IP address on Windows 11 is pretty straightforward, but it can get a bit confusing if you’re not sure where to look, or if Windows decides to make it tricky. Sometimes, the usual methods don’t work as smoothly—especially with virtual networks or VPNs running in the background. Knowing how to quickly find your IP can save ya heaps of time if you’re troubleshooting network issues or setting up remote access. This guide walks you through the easiest ways – from the Settings menu to command-line tricks – so you can grab your IP without losing your marbles. And yeah, Windows can be a bit quirky, so it’s handy to have a few options up your sleeve.

How to Find Your IP Address on Windows 11

Check your network info through Settings

Because of course, Windows loves to keep things a bit complicated, but if you want a straightforward way, start by opening the Settings app. Hit Start or press Win + I. Then go to Network & Internet. Find your current connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), click on it, and look for the Properties section. Your IP address should be listed under IPv4 address.

This method’s pretty handy if you just want a quick peek without fuss. On some setups, the address might not update immediately if your network’s a bit dodgy, but it’s a good starting point.

Use Command Prompt — the old-school trick

This one’s a classic, and sometimes it’s quicker than digging through menus. Open Command Prompt by typing “cmd” into the Start menu search or pressing Win + R and typing cmd. When it pops up, type ipconfig and hit Enter. Look for the line that says IPv4 Address. That’s your IP.

This works on pretty much any Windows machine and is handy if Windows is playing hide-and-seek with your settings. Plus, if you wanna script or check multiple network interfaces, it’s stellar.

Check via Network Settings in the Taskbar

This is a quick shortcut if you just want a quick look without diving into menus. Right-click the network icon in your taskbar (the Wi-Fi or Ethernet symbol), then select Open Network & Internet settings. Your current connection will be listed; click on it, then press Properties. Your IP address should be there, usually just below your network info.

Sometimes Windows likes to hide these details, so if you don’t see it straight away, give the previous methods a go. Still, it’s a handy way to get some info without much clicking around.

Extra tips for quick checks and troubleshooting

  • Check with PowerShell: Open PowerShell and run Get-NetIPAddress. It’ll show all network adapters and their IPs. Good if you’re managing multiple interfaces or need more detail.
  • Restart your network adapter: Sometimes, your IP might not show or update properly. Head into Device Manager, find your network card, right-click, and choose Disable device. Wait a few seconds, then enable it again. This often refreshes your network info.
  • Use an online IP checker: If you’re unsure whether it’s your local or public IP, visit a site like whatismyipaddress.com. Just keep in mind, that shows your public IP—your local one’s different, so know what you’re after.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Local and Public IP?

Your local IP is what your router assigns to your device inside your home network—like 192.168.x.x. The public IP is what websites or external services see when you’re online. Both are useful, but if you’re troubleshooting, you’ll mostly want your local IP.

Why does my IP keep changing?

Most Aussie internet providers assign dynamic IPs, which can shuffle around every now and then. If you need a permanent, static IP—for hosting or remote access—you’ll need to set that up manually or chat with your ISP. Otherwise, expect it to change now and then.

Can I find my IP on my phone or tablet too?

Absolutely! For Android or iOS, just go into Wi-Fi settings, tap your network, and look for the IP info. Usually pretty straightforward; those operating systems show the details upfront.

Summary

  • Open Settings or Command Prompt.
  • Navigate to Network & Internet or run ipconfig.
  • Look for your IPv4 address—usually 192.168.x.x.
  • Use PowerShell for more detailed info if needed.
  • Remember, your local IP’s different from your public IP—don’t get the two mixed up.

Wrap-up

Sometimes Windows just won’t give you the IP straight away, but these tips usually do the trick. Whether you’re troubleshooting, setting things up, or just curious, knowing how to find your IP quickly will save you a lot of hassle. If one method doesn’t do it, just try the others. Windows can be a bit quirky, but once you get the hang of these tricks, it’s not so bad. Hope this helps you save some time and avoid the stress!