All computers and devices come with IP (Internet Protocol) addresses that allow them to exchange communication over the Internet via an IP-based network. These IP addresses function as an independent identity that can be recognized by other devices on the network. There are plenty of kinds of IP addresses, namely, public, private, still, and active. These network addresses are all available in either IPv4 or IPv6 types. There might be occasions when your Windows OS would appear with an error message- “Ethernet does not have a effective IP configuration”. Here is a detailed explanation of how to tackle the situation.

Immediate Solutions

Restart the Computer with Router/ Modem

Sometimes going back to the basics can provide solutions to the biggest of problems. Please save all your important files and programs before rebooting your operating systems. Furthermore, it is also advisable to unplug the router/ modem and permission it unattended as it is for a few minutes before putting it back. Once the system is up and running, you can see the Ethernet-related error is addressed.

Reset TCP/IP

A command-line scripting utility by definition, you can enter and execute netsh in the Command action to run group commands in batch method. Your computer will ask your permission to reboot the system to complete the resetting process. You need to ignore those calls and hit enter instead, twice. Now restart the system and you will find out that the issue has been addressed.

Clear the Network Cache

Use the “ipconfig” command to reset the DNS client resolver cache and renew the DHCP configuration. Type “ipconfig” on the command prompt bar, and then feed the following commands before pressing the enter button- ipconfig/release, ipconfig/flushdns, ipconfig/renew. Try this method every time to get rid of the problem.

Reset TCP/IP Manually

In case the above two options are not solving your Ethernet configuration, try resetting the TCP/IP settings manually this time. Press Windows + R to bring the Run dialogue box. Then type “ncpa.cpl” command and hit enter with OK. Next, please right-click on the Ethernet connection to select Properties on the menu. Here look for the IP version you are using (IPv4 or IPv6). Select it before hitting properties again. Try obtaining both IP and DNS addresses automatically before clicking OK. Restart your computer to see if your system still has no valid IP configuration Ethernet.

It is a very difficult task to fix Ethernet that does not have a valid IP configuration. But, the options discussed above will definitely help in resolving this issue. There is also a big chance that poor internet service hampering your wired connectivity. In this regard, the service provider will have to step in.