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This topic explains how to use the Windows Command Prompt to ping another computer and check the local IP configuration.

The Command Prompt is a basic command-line interface application in Windows that executes commands. Pandoras Box operators can use it to troubleshoot network issues.
The simplest way to open the Command Prompt is to press [Windows key + R] and type "cmd". In the window, write below commands behind the already existing line and hit the [Enter] key.

How to Ping Another Computer

The ping command is used to check the general network setup. A ping request is sent out four times and the remote PC answers if it received it.

Enter the ping command together with the target IP address (e.g. ping 10.0.0.100) or together with the computer name (e.g. ping PB987654).

If the network setup is alright, you will get a result as shown below (four entries "Reply From < IP address >: bytes [...]")
This means the network adapters "should" also be able to communicate using other programs unless something else is blocking their traffic like virus software etc.

The "time" is the duration between sending the ping and receiving the answer. If it is way too long, there is too much traffic or not enough bandwidth on the network.

If you get a result saying "Request timed out" or "Reply From < IP address >: Destination Host Unreachable" the network connection is not alright. You should check the general network setup: switches or routers, cables (and their connectors!), IP addresses or subnet masks, very strict firewalls...

The ping command is also useful to find out whether a computer, switch etc. finished rebooting. In that case the variation with "-t" is quiet helpful. Enter "ping 10.0.0.100 -t" to send unlimited ping requests. Enter [Ctrl + C] to stop pinging. See "Helpful tips" below too.

How to Check the Local IP Configuration

The command to show the local IP configuration gives a good overview of all relevant network adapters as it lists their IP address, subnet mask and gateway. Simply enter "ipconfig" and you will get something as depicted below. You can also use "ipconfig/all" and get a more verbose overview (including host name, MAC address, etc.)

Helpful Tips

- enter "/help" or "/?" after a command to get more information and possibilities to use the command. e.g. "ping/?" will show you the "-t" option mentioned above

- in a new line, press the [Arrow up] key (several times) to recall the last commands

- to select, copy or paste in the Command Prompt, click the left corner in the title bar (the black icon) and choose "Edit"

- those two commands could be of interest too; "netstat" displays all open network connections and listening ports; "tracert" displays information about the routes of data packages