What is an IP Address Conflict and how to Fix it

While connected to the same network/router to access the internet, we may face a similar error message showing ”  Windows has detected an IP address conflict“, so why this happens and how to fix it.

An IP address conflict occurs when two communications endpoints on the same network have been assigned the same IP address. The two endpoints may be two computers, laptops, mobiles, or any two of the mentioned.

ip address conflict detect and fix

How IP Address Conflict Happens:

Two computers or mobiles can acquire IP address conflict due to the following possible reasons.

  • A Computer or laptop is put into sleep mode and then turned on while connected to another network that has already assigned the same IP address to another computer. It usually happens while traveling from home to the office or from one place to another while keeping the laptop in standby mode.
  • Two Computers are assigned the same static IP addresses automatically or by the system administrator.
  • One computer is assigned a static IP address that falls within the DHCP range (dynamic IP address range ) for the local network and the same address is assigned to a computer by the DHCP server.
  • If you have multiple network adapters (more than one wifi connection that allows automatic connection when within range ), it is possible for the computer to have an IP address conflict with itself.
  • An Internet Services Provider (ISP) accidentally assigns two customers the same IP address (either statically or dynamically).

How to Recognize IP address Conflict:

The exact message showing an IP address conflict may vary, depending on the type of error. However, the following possible error messages may pop up to recognize the error.

There is an IP address conflict with another system on the network.

The static IP address that was just configured is already in use on the network. Please reconfigure a different IP address.

The system has detected a conflict for IP address..

Usually, the latter message will display in the old System like having Windows XP, etc.

Learn to Upgrade From Windows XP Service Pack 2 to SP3

How to Fix duplicate internet protocol addresses between Computers:

Use the following possible ways or settings to fix this error between computers.

Step One: Restart your router and see if the problem is fixed, because by restarting the router will be reassigned IP addresses to computers connected to the same network. If not fixed then go to next

Step Two: Assigning a new Static IP Address: Another way to fix the issue is by assigning a new IP address to your computer by using Command Prompt, for this use the simple method described:

  • Open Command Prompt > Type “ipconfig /release” (without Commas) and Press Enter, the DHCP server will then assign a new IP address to your computer.

Step Three:  Upgrading Router Firmware: If your broadband router is believed to have a faulty DHCP server causing IP conflicts on the home network, upgrading the router firmware may resolve this problem. One can download the latest version from the manufacturer’s website.

I hope so you will be able to solve the issue regarding the IP addresses Conflicting on the same network. Do comments with your feedback.

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