How do I fix the network connection?

Question

I set up a wireless router for my apartment, and I have been having trouble with connecting a computer to the router. The computer connects to the internet, but it is not assigned an IP address. This problem also occurs with connecting the computer directly to the cable modem.

The computer is fairly old, but is running windows XP. It has successfully connected to a cable modem before.

By connect, I mean to the modem. It doesn't connect to the internet. When I run the command prompt, it shows no IP address.

Also, I am connecting this computer wired, not wireless.

Answer 1

If it is not assigned an IP address, I don't see how you are on the internet. What is the IP information?

Start
Run
Type cmd in the box
At the prompt type ipconfig /all

What is the IP address?
What is the Subnet Mask?
What is the Default Gateway?

If by no IP address you mean it shows 0.0.0.0 then for some reason your dhcp server is not assigning one to you or your network card is not setup to receive one through DHCP. If you are getting the same results plugging directly into your modem, bypassing a router, then check your network settings are configured to receive an IP address automatically as well as the DNS servers. If this still does not work, call your ISP for help.

Answer 2

The computer can't connect to the Internet without an IP address.

The computer may connect to the wireless network, but not get an IP address. First look at the TCP/IP properties under network properties. Be sure the IP address is set for dynamic.

You've got something mis-configured in the network properties.

Answer 3

Are you sure it doesn't have an IP address, I bet your not looking in the right place.

Start > run > cmd > ipconfig /release > ipconfig /renew

What do you see?
Probably, 192.168.1.*