Works, unplugged, plugged... doesn't work

[bazbazilisc2002]

On many PCs/Laptops sometimes I have the exact same frustrating problem. I unplugged the LAN cable to use it on another PC. When I want to put it back my "Ethernet does not have a valid IP configuration". It neither worked on the second PC. So whenever I put a new LAN cable into a new PC or replug it after 5 mins from when I unplugged it IT DOESN'T WORK. It happend around 30 during my life and I am sick of it. The only solution for the last 29 times was troubleshooting or shutdown > wait 5 mins > hope. Help :/

 

[Jwpanz]

Open command prompt as an administrator (right click on command prompt and select administrator). Type the following: netsh winsock reset

This should reset your network configuration and allow it to work without the need to restart.

The issue you are seeing is likely the result of you switching the ethernet cable between computers. When your pc is connected to a router it is assigned an IP address over the network. Switching the cable to a new PC will cause the network to reassign a new IP address. And then switching back to the first PC results in an IP mismatch over the network. This is why restarting the PC fixes the problem because it resets the network settings and allows the PC to be assigned an address.

 

[anotherdrew]

From a command prompt, try "ipconfig /release" and then "ipconfig /renew" ... this should also work, but the better solution is a small switch (5 port .. $20 ish) and a couple more Ethernet cables. That way you are not moving cables around.