For most users, changing the IP address of their computer isn't something they do often, and automatic configuration takes care of setting all the necessary values. However, there are always environments that require special parameters or alternate DHCP and DNS servers. The problem is that Windows buries these options deeper and deeper, but with the app Simple IP Config you can not only change your PC's IP address easily, but you'll also have the ability to create profiles to save (and apply) multiple configurations at once.
In Windows 10, I recommend right-clicking the network icon, opening Network & Internet Settings, clicking Change adapter options, and entering the properties of the network device you want to modify. As expected, these directions no longer work in Windows 11, because the options are now called Advanced network settings, and inside it is More network adapter options.
The lack of consistency in Windows advanced options doesn't surprise us at all… and we're tired of it. More hardcore users can take a shortcut and change their PC's IP address using netsh in the system console, but today I'd like to introduce a free and open-source alternative called Simple IP Config.
How to change your PC's IP address with Simple IP Config
The program has a portable edition and requires no additional setup. At the top right you'll see a list of detected network devices, and Simple IP Config reports the parameters present on each one, from the MAC address to its general status. In the second half of the interface you can see all the values to modify, that is, address/mask/gateway, and the two DNS servers. Changes are applied instantly.
Another interesting option is profile creation, which is extremely useful in special cases. For example, assigning a static IP to a wireless network adapter allows us to take advantage of port forwarding at home or in the office, but once we leave that network, it's best for the adapter to return to its automatic configuration, and Simple IP Config reduces the process to a couple of clicks.
Finally, Simple IP Config can release and renew DHCP, disable network adapters, or take you to the Network Connections section in a single click. To download a copy, visit its GitHub profile below.
(Editor's note: Windows Defender and Firefox are reporting a false positive on the program. All details are in the Issues section on GitHub.)
Official site and download: Click here
