Command reference

ipconfig /release and ipconfig /renew

Release and request a new DHCP address lease.

Syntax

ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew

Purpose: Drops DHCP-assigned addresses and asks the DHCP server for fresh configuration.
Administrator: Yes — use an elevated terminal for this deliberate connectivity change.
Risk: Moderate; active network access stops between commands and remote sessions can disconnect.
Windows support: Windows 11 and Windows 10

When to use it

The active adapter has an automatic 169.254 address
A DHCP lease is present but suspected to be stale

When not to use it

You are connected only through a remote session
The adapter intentionally uses a static address
The adapter has no wired or wireless link

Steps

Save network-dependent work and record static or managed configuration.
Open Terminal as administrator and run ipconfig /release.
Run ipconfig /renew, then inspect the lease with ipconfig /all.

Expected result

A reachable DHCP server assigns an address, subnet mask, gateway, DNS servers, and lease times. A timeout or 169.254 address means renewal failed.

Limitations

It cannot restore a missing link or make an unavailable DHCP server respond.
It does not repair Wi-Fi authentication, DNS service, or router internet access.