An IP conflict can be frustrating. It occurs when two computers trying to access a network have the same IP address. Luckily, you can identify an IP address conflict fairly easily.
Step 1
Connect the computer you are using to the network you are experiencing the problem on.
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Step 2
Try to access the network. If the computer logs onto the network and can access it, then there is no conflict. If it cannot connect and you receive an error report like "There is an IP address conflict with another system on the network," then there is probably a conflict.
Step 3
Find out if your computer has a static IP address. Bring up the wireless network connection status information by double-clicking on the network connection icon in the lower-right corner of the computer. Under the General tab, select "Properties." Select "Internet Protocol" and select the "Properties" button. If the "Obtain IP Address Automatically" dot is highlighted, then your computer does not have a static IP address. If the computer is using a static IP address, it could be trying to only connect to one specific IP address that is already in use instead of picking an open one, causing an IP conflict.
Step 4
Find out if the other devices on the network are using the same IP address as the computer with the conflict. Click "Start," "Control Panel," "Administrative Tools" and "Event Viewer." Look through the error listing for a "DHCP" error entry. If it is listed as an error event, then you have an IP address conflict.
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