How do I Set a Static IP Address in Windows?

Setting up a static IP address on your computer network can be very helpful, especially if you require port forwarding on your network. A static IP address makes it possible for a port configuration to work, but since dynamic IPs create a new IP address each time a computer starts up, port forwarding on your network can become in-operable. Before giving you tips on how to set up a static IP address, here is some information regarding IPs in general.


What is an IP Address?
Internet Protocol (IP) address is a number separated by periods that makes it possible for computers to identify one another. It should be noted that while each computer has at least one IP address, some can have several. The following is an IP address: 127.0.0.1.

Dynamic and Static IP Addresses
A dynamic IP address is one that constantly changes each time a computer is rebooted. A static IP address is one that stays the same. It should be noted that dynamic IP addresses are the default type of addresses due to the fact that on a network connected to a router, each time a computer starts up the router assigns a new IP address to the computer on the network.

The router keeps track of the IP addresses it hands out- this way preventing two computers having the same IP address. If two computers on the network have the same IP address, both won't be able to access the internet.

How to Set up a Static IP for Windows
Setting up a static IP is usually a simple process - here are the steps you should follow:

Click on the Start Button and then choose Run. The Run window should open.

Type cmd in the Run box and click OK. A new black window should open up with a prompt.

At the prompt, type ipconfig/all and click Enter. You should now see lots of information related to your IP. Some of this information you will need later - either print the screen or copy down the info for the following fields; IP address, Default Gateway, Subnet Mask and Name Servers (Name Servers are also called DNS Servers). Once all the information has been copied or printed, exit this window.

Click Start and then Control Panel, then select Network Connections. Once the Network Connections window opens, you should see your network connection labeled. Many networks and computers have more than one network connection. Choose the network connection that you use to connect to the internet. Once this network connection is selected, right click and choose properties.
Hint: If you are having difficulties finding the network connection that is used to connect to the internet, one way to make your search easier is to disable one connection at a time and then test using your browser if your internet still works. If your internet no longer works, then the network connection you disabled is the one that you use to connect to the internet.


In the Properties window, select the General tab and then click on Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). Once this is selected click on the Properties button.

On this screen, choose the following radio button: Use the Following IP Address and then you will fill in the following information regarding:
IP Address
Subnet Mask
Default Gateway
There will also be two radio buttons. Choose the radio Button: Use the Following DNS Server Address. There are two more fields to fill in, they are:

Preferred DNS Server
Alternate DNS Address
Once this information has been added, click OK. A static IP address has been set for Windows.