How to fix “Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration” error in Windows 10/11

What is “Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration” error

If you are experiencing the Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration error on your Windows 10/11 computer, you may be unable to connect to the internet. The “Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration” error means that Windows cannot receive the IP address from the DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), which automatically assigns IP addresses to devices connected to the network. This error can be caused by various problems with the network interface card (NIC), faulty drivers, and an improperly configured router or modem. The error can occur when the system is failing to establish a connection to the internet, and it believes the IP address is involved in the issue. In this article, we will provide you with instructions on how to fix this error.

1. Reset TCP/IP

As mentioned, the error may occur due to incorrect TCP/IP configuration. TCP/IP is a set of fundamental protocols used to set up proper communication for the Internet and similar computer networks. Thus, we will try to reset it via the steps below:

1. Find Command Prompt by typing cmd into the searching box. Then right-click on it and choose Run as administrator.
2. In the opened window, you should paste these commands one-by-one by clicking Enter after each.

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset

3. Close the console and the problem should disappear itself. If not, try to paste the following commands according to the same algorithm.

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /renew

Hopefully, this option will solve the problem.

2. Change/Flush or reset DNS/IP configuration and internet settings

Sometimes, DNS/IP changing or flushing can work out. Let’s try to change the automatic DNS and IP addresses to custom servers for the time being.

To change DNS and IP:

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network Connections.
2. Double-click on your connection name.
3. Click on Properties.
4. Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
5. Mark Use the following IP address and Use the following DNS server addresses.
6. Change IP address, Subnet mask, Default gateway, and DNS according to the underneath image

3. Update Network Adapter Driver

If your system struggles to establish contact with the network, then this may be because Network Adapter Drivers are broken or working incorrectly. As you are not able to connect to the Ethernet, you will have to download driver to USB storage from other devices. Additionally, if you want to update them automatically, you can download IObit Driver Booster via the link below, but note that it will require a network connection.

Driver Booster start screen

Driver Booster scan results

Driver Booster tools section

To run a manual update, please follow this algorithm:

1. Left-click on the Start Menu button and choose Device Manager.
2. Now find and expand Network Adapters.
3. Right-click on your adapter and choose Update driver. If there are other drivers available in the list, you should also update them.
4. In the opened window, select Browse my computer for driver software.
5. Then click Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer.
6. Select the driver from plugged USB device, click Next and follow on-screen instructions to finish the process.

4. Increase the number of DHCP Users.

Some users managed to rectify the popping up error by enhancing the number of DHCP Users. The process may differ on different routers, so you will have to identify your model and change the DHCP value manually. If none of the methods helped you resolve the issue, you can try the final tips presented below.

5. Scan your PC for malware.

Each day people are getting infected with thousands of malware. Such infiltrations are capable of modifying and destroying certain segments that lead to faulty settings and spoil the overall experience. Therefore, it is recommended to scan your pc and eliminate threats if detected. You can use Norton Antivirus for maintaining your computer safe and virus-free.

Conclusion

The “Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration” error can be frustrating, but there are several methods you can try to fix it. Updating your network adapter driver, resetting your IP and TCP, restarting your router, disabling Fast Startup, and reinstalling your network adapter are all potential solutions. If none of these methods work, you may need to contact your internet service provider or a professional technician for further assistance.