Ping is a means of determining whether a specific IP address is available. It works by sending a packet to the specified address and waiting for a reply. A ping is used primarily to troubleshoot Internet connections when you are having problems viewing your Web site online. If you are having problems with your internet connection, you can follow the instructions listed below to determine if there is a problem. If you receive a successful ping, there is an internet connection and the problem is unrelated to your connection.
If you are unable to perform a ping, there could be several reasons including problems with:
- Your local network connection
- Your ISP
- Your local router
1.) Open a terminal session by clicking Start then click Run
2.) Once in the dialog box, type "cmd"
3.) After command window loads type "ping IPADDRESS" (yes, there is a space before the ipaddress)
4.) Press enter, and if the following screen appears then the user is hitting the network. If an error appears then the user is not able to access the network.
Tips & Warnings
- A detailed explanation of all Ping parameters can be obtained at any time by typing "ping --help."
- For troubleshooting purposes, remember that the IP address 127.0.0.1 is the loopback. Ping this first to ensure that the local NIC is functioning properly.