How to Troubleshoot “Windows has detected an IP address conflict” Error Message

Like any other computer, your computer gets an IP address when it connects to a network or the Internet. An IP address is a unique address and identifier for your computer. The IP address system allows networks (or the Internet in general) to distinguish and recognize computers. Therefore, in theory, no two computers on a given network (or on the Internet in general) can (or should) have the same IP address.

What causes the “Windows has detected an IP address conflict” message?

Each device that connects to the network is assigned a unique number – an IP address – that allows it to be recognized and communicated with. So, theoretically, no two devices can have the same IP address. But in practice, interference is always possible. Two or more devices may have the same IP address because of a faulty router, computer settings, or even problems with the Internet service provider. read more