Windows 11 · Windows
Fix ‘Ethernet Doesn’t Have a Valid IP Configuration’ in Windows 11
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Check the cable and router port first, then run Get Help's Network and Internet troubleshooter. On a normal automatic-address network, confirm Ethernet uses Automatic (DHCP), run Microsoft's network commands in order, and use Network reset only last because it removes adapters and their settings.
Check the cable and router port
Reseat both cable ends and make sure the router end is in a LAN port, not the modem or Internet port. Try another cable and LAN port. Settings > Network & internet should show Ethernet rather than Not connected.
Restart the network equipment
Warn other users that the connection will drop. Unplug the router and modem for at least 30 seconds, reconnect the modem and wait for its lights to settle, then reconnect the router. Restart the PC and test Ethernet.
Run Windows network diagnostics
Open Get Help and run the Network and Internet troubleshooter. Apply its matching recommendation, then check Settings > Network & internet and test two unrelated fresh webpages.
Confirm automatic IP assignment
Only if this network normally assigns addresses automatically, open Settings > Network & internet > Ethernet > the connected network > IP assignment > Edit, choose Automatic (DHCP), and Save. Keep assigned static values on managed networks and ask the administrator instead.
Renew the Windows network stack
Search for Command Prompt, select Run as administrator, then Yes. Run these commands in order: netsh winsock reset; netsh int ip reset; ipconfig /release; ipconfig /renew; ipconfig /flushdns. Restart if prompted, then test Ethernet again.
Use Network reset last
Open Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset > Reset now > Yes. Windows removes and reinstalls adapters; VPN clients or virtual switches may need setup again, and known networks may return as Public. Success means Ethernet shows Internet access and two unrelated fresh sites load.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If ipconfig shows a 169.254.x.x address on an automatic network, Windows did not receive an address from the router; check its DHCP service or ask the network administrator.
- If Wi-Fi works but Ethernet fails, test the cable, router port, and Ethernet adapter rather than resetting every network setting.
- If no device connects, focus on the router or ISP. If a USB Ethernet adapter fails, test that adapter on another PC.
- On a managed or static-IP network, do not switch to DHCP without the administrator's approval.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform update.