Your computer asked the router for an IP address and didn't get a usable one. Renewing the address and restarting the router fixes most cases. If it keeps happening, the router may be out of addresses or its DHCP service isn't working.
Common causes
Router DHCP isn't handing out addresses
The router's DHCP service can stop responding, or the address pool can fill up when many devices are connected.
Stale address on the computer
After moving between networks or waking from sleep, Windows may hold onto an address that no longer works.
Manually set (static) IP address
A static address left over from another network, or one that duplicates another device, prevents a valid configuration.
Network adapter driver problems
An outdated or corrupted WiFi or Ethernet driver can fail to complete the address request.
How to fix it, step by step
- 1
Restart the computer and router
Restart the router, wait for it to come back up, then restart the computer.
- 2
Release and renew the IP address
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run ipconfig /release and then ipconfig /renew.
- 3
Make sure the adapter uses automatic settings
In the adapter's IPv4 properties, select "Obtain an IP address automatically" and "Obtain DNS server address automatically" unless your network requires static settings.
- 4
Reset TCP/IP and Winsock
Run netsh winsock reset and netsh int ip reset as administrator, then restart.
- 5
Update or reinstall the network driver
In Device Manager, update the network adapter driver, or uninstall it and restart so Windows reinstalls it.
- 6
Check the router's DHCP pool
If several devices have the problem, check how many addresses the router's DHCP range allows. A small range can run out in busy offices.
When to call a technician
If more than one device gets this error, or it returns after a fix, the network's DHCP setup needs attention. We can resize the address pool, set reservations for printers and servers, and replace a router that is failing.
On-site support across Orange County · see our business networking and WiFi installation services.
Frequently asked questions
What does 169.254 mean in my IP address?
An address starting with 169.254 means Windows assigned one to itself because it couldn't reach a DHCP server. It's a sign the computer never got an address from the router.
Can too many devices cause this error?
Yes. If the router's address pool is full, new devices can't get an address. Phones, laptops, printers, and smart devices all count.
Why does only one computer get this error?
When only one device is affected, the cause is usually its driver, a static IP setting, or corrupted network settings on that computer.