Every computer has a niche IP address through which a person’s device could be identified when connected to a particular network. The IP address is created in such a way that it can help the network identify and differentiate between devices.
In case a person encounters “Windows has detected an IP address conflict error”, it simply states that your IP address is being utilised by some other device within the network. One should keep in mind that all IP addresses are distinct or else one may experience few obstacles.
For instance, when someone connects three devices: laptop, smartphone and tablet to a particular network it should automatically generate three IP addresses but sometimes two devices have the same IP address.
In such a circumstance the network is unable to detect the three different devices. This issue occurs either in your router or your PC settings.
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What Does the “Windows Has Detected an IP Address Conflict” Error Mean?
This error indicates that two or more devices on the same network have been assigned the same IP address.
IP addresses are unique identifiers for each device on a network, allowing them to communicate with each other and the internet.
When two devices share the same IP, it can prevent one or both devices from using network resources effectively.
Common Causes of This Error
- Manual IP Address Assignment: If an IP address is manually assigned to a device without ensuring it’s unique within the network, it can lead to conflicts.
- Router Issues: Sometimes, routers may mistakenly assign the same dynamic IP address to multiple devices.
- Network Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings on the router or network can lead to improper IP address distribution.
- Device Reconnection: Devices rejoining the network after a temporary disconnection may be assigned an IP address that is already in use.
- Sleep Mode Reconnections: Devices waking up from sleep mode may try to reconnect using an IP address that has been reassigned to another device.
How to Fix ‘Windows has detected an IP address conflict’ Error?
In case you experience something like this get rid of it as soon as possible as this may create hurdles in your network. To do so follow the guide listed below accordingly The problem with regards to conflicting IP address could be solved using different strategies.
Some of which are quite complex others being a bit simpler, the list can just go on. The guide below follows the order from simple to complex so do try the order as it is.
In case the simple solutions do not work for you, keep calm and then follow the complex alternatives accurately.
Method 1: Restart Your Router
To allot distinct IP address to various devices when connected to a network is the sole duty of the router. In case the router fails to do its job then “Windows has detected an IP address conflict error” can occur.
To solve this problem follow the steps listed below
Step 1:- to turn of the router tap on the power button. This should shut down your router which indicates that the internet facility is temporarily closed.
Step 2:- now your job is to wait for 5-10 mins to shut down your router and the network completely.
Step 3:- finally switch on your router again.
Since all devices were disconnected one may have to connect all the devices again, do so and check whether the problem still persists.
Method 2: Update Your Network Card Driver
One should regularly update their network card driver, an outdated and old version of your card driver can create hindrance in the network and create multiple issues. To update your network card follow the methods listed below
Under this procedure the user would be using integrated device manager to enable the updated version
Step 1:- tap on Windows + R keys to open Run application
Step 2 :- now type devmgmt.msc and tap on OK option to launch device manager
Step 3:- click on the arrow icon to extend network adapters option.
Step 4:- right click to select update driver
Step 5:- tap on Search automatically for updated driver software.
Step 6:- let windows find the update. This should update and install it automatically on your device.
Step 7:- final step would be to restart and check whether the problem is solved
Update your drivers with a third-party app
There are few third-party updater tools which include Driver Booster, DriverHub, or DriverPack Solution. These tools could be accessed easily and free of cost by the user.
There are many advanced tools too which you can find on different web pages that can help you get rid of the problem
One should note that one should always use a trusted application because many a times it is so soon that the application assures a user to solve the problem but fails to do so.
Sometimes they contain malware, adware, or spyware. therefore be very careful do conduct a thorough research, read all the reviews before using the application.
Additional Methods
Check Connected Devices
- Log into your router’s web interface to check all devices connected to your network. Look for any anomalies or duplicate IP addresses and adjust as needed.
Increase DHCP Scope
- If your network has many devices, consider increasing the DHCP scope in your router settings. This provides a larger pool of IP addresses, reducing the likelihood of conflicts.
Use Network Scanner Tools
- Use tools like Advanced IP Scanner or Fing to scan your network and identify devices with conflicting IP addresses.
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Conclusion
Trying all this methods efficiently and effectively should be able to solve your problem of Windows has detected an IP address conflict’ error.
In case the problem persists do try to figure out where you must have gone wrong by trying the above listed methods accurately.
