There is no single “reset IP address” button in Windows 10 because an IP address can come from DHCP, be configured manually, or be assigned by a VPN or organization. For a typical home network using DHCP, releasing and renewing the address is the appropriate first step.
Renew a DHCP address
- Open Command Prompt with the permissions required for network commands.
- Enter ipconfig /release.
- Enter ipconfig /renew.
- Enter ipconfig to review the resulting configuration.
Releasing an address temporarily disconnects that adapter, so do not do this during an important remote session.
Restarting the connection can also obtain a new lease
Disconnecting and reconnecting Wi-Fi, restarting the computer, or restarting a home router can trigger DHCP negotiation. It does not guarantee a different address because the DHCP server can assign the same address again.
Do not confuse local and public IP addresses
Commands such as ipconfig show addresses assigned to Windows network adapters. Your Internet-facing public address is normally assigned upstream by the ISP and cannot necessarily be changed by renewing the PC’s local DHCP lease.
Static addresses require different handling
If the adapter has a manually configured IP address, gateway, or DNS server, DHCP release/renew is not the correct fix. Record the intended configuration before changing it.
Network reset is much broader
Windows network-reset features reinstall or reset networking components and can remove adapter, VPN, or virtual-network configuration. Use them only after simpler troubleshooting and record settings you may need to restore.
Windows 10 support status
For network repair, remember that Microsoft ended standard Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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