iGeeksBlog

How to fix “self-assigned IP address” issue on Mac

Ava

  • The self-assigned IP address error occurs when your Mac assigns itself an IP address instead of getting one from the router.
  • This usually happens due to network configuration issues, DHCP server problems, glitches in the firewall settings, unstable Wi-Fi connection, etc.
  • To fix the “self-assigned IP address” error on your Mac, renew DHCP lease, restart your network devices , rejoin your Wi-Fi , or check your network settings . 

Is your MacBook struggling to access the internet, though your Wi-Fi or Ethernet works fine? This can be due to the self-assigned IP address error on your Mac. Worry not!

Here, I’ll share how to fix the internet not working due to a self-assigned IP address error on your Mac to regain a stable network connection. But before we jump into the troubleshooting steps, let’s understand what a self-assigned IP error is.

What does “self-assigned IP address” mean on Mac? 

The “self-assigned IP address” error on Mac refers to a situation where your device assigns an IP address and sets up an ad-hoc network instead of obtaining one from the network router or DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server.

This self-assigned IP address is not legitimate or acknowledged on the network. That’s why your Mac cannot connect to the internet or other devices on the network, resulting in limited or no network connectivity.

This issue occurs due to several reasons such as:

  • Network configuration conflicts
  • DHCP server unavailability
  • Problems with Mac’s network
  • Unstable Wi-Fi connection
  • Wrong Firewall settings
  • Outdated macOS

But you can fix the issue with a few simple methods. Let’s learn them!

How to fix “self-assigned IP address” error on Mac

There are 12 ways to fix the problem, from simple checks to more advanced changes. It would help if you tried them in the order provided.

  • Check your connection
  • Reboot your network devices
  • Renew DHCP Lease on macOS
  • Rejoin your Wi-Fi network
  • Check your connection settings
  • Reset your Network Preferences on Mac
  • Create a new network location
  • Reset the Firewall on your Mac
  • Set Service Order from Mac’s network settings
  • Change DNS Servers on macOS
  • Check for conflicting IP address
  • Disable VPN

1. Check your connection

Before diving into Mac-specific settings, ensure that your router is functioning correctly and located near your Mac to obtain a valid IP address. Besides, if you are using an Ethernet connection, plug in the cable snugly.  

I also check to validate that the cable has no fault and is in good condition. Moreover, If you are using an old Wi-Fi router, discard it and get a new one to obtain a smoother connection.

2. Reboot your network devices

Restarting both your modem and router can often resolve temporary network glitches. Power off the devices, unplug the cables, and wait a few seconds. It will help them cool down, as excessive heat can cause malfunctions.

After that, plug all cables, connect them to the power outlet, and turn them back on. In the meantime, restart your Mac once to iron out any bugs in macOS.   

  • Click the Apple logo .

Just click the Apple logo → choose Restart on your Mac

3. Renew DHCP Lease on macOS

This method is effective when the assigned IP address may have expired or encountered conflicts. When you renew the DHCP Lease, your Mac requests a new IP address from the DHCP server. It ensures a valid configuration and resolves connectivity issues.  

  • Open the same TCP/IP tab window from Wi-Fi Details, as shown above. 

click tcp/ip, select renew dhcp lease in wi-fi settings

After renewing the lease, check if you can connect to your network. If that doesn’t help, try creating a New Network Location and renewing the lease.

4. Rejoin your Wi-Fi network

Sometimes, simply forgetting and rejoining your Wi-Fi network can solve the self-assigned IP address error on your Mac.   

Click Apple logo, System Settings

  • Turn off Wi-Fi for a few seconds and toggle it on.

click connect in wi-fi on mac

5. Check your connection settings

Verify that your Mac’s network settings are configured correctly. You must opt for the appropriate network settings to obtain IP addresses and DNS information automatically. 

  • Go to your Wi-Fi Details .  I have shown the steps above.  
  • Select TCP/IP from the left panel. 

click tcp/ip, select using dhcp in configure ipv4, select automatic in configure ipv6 in wi-fi settings

You may also try turning off the IPv6, as some users reported it conflicted with the IP address assigning procedure.

  • Click on the drop-down arrow beside Configure IPv6 . 

select dropdown beside configure ipv6, click link local only in wi-fi settings

6. Reset your Network Preferences on Mac 

Resetting the network preferences can help eliminate IP address misconfiguration, causing the internet to not work. So, you must delete specific network connectivity-related files from your MacBook.

  • Launch  Finder .

Go to Folder to clear cache

  • Enter your Mac password to authenticate the deletion.
  • Restart your Mac. It will automatically recreate the deleted files.
  • Log in and connect to your Wi-Fi network.
  • Go to the  TCP/IP  setting again and check the router files.

7. Create a new network location

Creating a new network location lets your Mac start fresh with network settings and eliminate a self-assigned IP address.  

  • Click the  Apple logo →  System Settings .

Click the three-dots icon

  • Wait for a few seconds until your Mac connects to your Wi-Fi.

Repeat the steps of renewing the DHCP lease on your Mac, and then try connecting to your network.

When you try to perform configuration changes to the system, your Mac’s firewall experiences configuration issues. Let’s fix this problem by resetting the Firewall.

8. Reset the Firewall on your Mac

  • In the menu bar, click  Go  → Go to   Folder .

go to library preferences folder on mac

  • Restart your Mac.

After your system boots, it’ll ask you to allow access to numerous programs and services. Enable access depending upon your choice. Then, try connecting to your network and check if the self-assigned IP address error persists.

If you are unsure about deleting the Firewall files, you may temporarily disable it. Toggling off the Firewall on your Mac can help determine if it’s causing conflicts with network connectivity.

  • Select  Network  from the left panel → Choose Firewall .

Turn off your Mac Firewall

  • Restart your Mac and turn it on again.

9. Set Service Order from Mac’s network settings 

Adjusting the service order can prioritize the network interface, ensuring your Mac connects to your preferred network. 

  • Click the  Apple logo →  System Settings →  Network .

click set service order in network settings

10. Change DNS Servers on macOS

Discarding existing DNS and switching to alternative DNS servers can resolve DNS-related issues that may contribute to the self-assigned IP address error.  

  • Open System Settings → Wi-Fi → Click Details beside your Wi-Fi name.

select dns, click plus sign in wi-fi settings

  • Add   these numbers: 8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4 1.1.1.1 9.9.9.9

add dns addresses, click ok in wi-fi settings

11. Check for conflicting IP address 

Ensure that no other devices on your network use the same IP address as your Mac. Check your router’s DHCP client list and verify that all devices have unique IP addresses assigned.

12. Disable VPN 

If you have a VPN service enabled, disable it temporarily to see if it resolves the self-assigned IP address error. Open your Mac’s VPN settings and turn off the VPN connection. 

Bonus fixes 

You may need to attempt more complex fixes if the troubleshooting techniques outlined above do not fix the self-assigned IP address problem on your Mac:

  • Update your Mac to the latest OS version.
  • Verify your Mac is not infected with any malware or viruses. 
  • Ensure your network devices are operating well and there are no hardware problems. 
  • Restart your router or modem
  • Reset NVRAM or PRAM on Mac to clear up the system settings memory. 

Tips to prevent self-assigned IP address issues on Mac

Self-assigned IP address error is indeed frustrating as it prevents your Mac from accessing the internet. So, you must take some precautions to avoid such a nuisance in the future.

  • Regularly update your Mac
  • Try to restart your Mac, router, or other network devices once in a while
  • If your router or modem is outdated, replace it with a new one to get optimal performance. Also, configure the network with high-quality equipment.
  • Connect your Mac to only one active network. I suggest using an ethernet cable for a stable connection.
  • Don’t connect too many devices to your Wi-Fi at a time, as it may create network overcrowding.

Get back your smooth internet access!

Encountering a self-assigned IP address error on your Mac hampers your work, so you should address it ASAP. You can tackle the issue and restore a stable and reliable network connection using these troubleshooting techniques. 

If the problem isn’t resolved, contact Apple Support and seek assistance.

Explore more…

  • MacBook connects to Wi-Fi but has no Internet? 12 Fixes  
  • Wi-Fi not working on Mac? 10 Ways to fix!  
  • How to Run Wi-Fi Diagnostics on Mac for Better Network Connections  
  • How to fix IP address conflict on Mac: Simple solutions to fix it!

Readers like you help support iGeeksBlog. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.  Read Disclaimer .

' src=

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Macdentro.com

Press ESC to close

self assigned ip address mac

How to Fix the Self Assigned IP Address Issue on Mac

At times macOS users face the self-assigned IP address malfunction on their computer. Your Mac will keep alerting you to the ‘internet not working’ pop-up even if you have a Wi-Fi network connection.

It allows the network interface to make a malfunctioning ad-hoc network. There can be many reasons for network issues like a broken cable, DHCP server problem, network location, etc. But, it gets better if you know the correct way to troubleshoot the issue.

Table of Contents

Fixes for the self-assigned IP address issue

Self-assigned IP issues can frustrate users and cause internet issues. But, fret not, you can fix self-assigned IP address malfunction using any of the methods mentioned below:

  • Restart your modem

Before trying any other method to fix the internet issue restart your modem to see if it works. Click the ‘Wi-Fi’ button from the top menu on the Mac to turn it off. Please wait for a few minutes and then turn it back on. Check to see if the issue is fixed.

If this hack works, you will see the Wi-Fi connection running on your Mac with a proper IP address.

  • Re-enable the network preferences

self assigned ip mac os

To reset network preferences on your computer, follow these steps:

  • Open Mac, launch ‘Finder,’ and in the top menu bar, tap on ‘Go to Folder’ from the drop-down menu of the ‘Go’ bar
  • A new window will appear, type ''/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/'' and press enter
  • The System Configuration window will open. Then delete the following commands: ‘ com.apple .airport.preferences.plist, Networkinterface.plist and preferences.plist’ to reset network configurations
  • Please only delete the files if you have no issue losing the network configuration
  • Please switch off the Mac and then switch it back on; try and link to the Wi-Fi again
  • Open TCP/IP settings again and look for the files that you deleted
  • You will find the removed files back in the old folder

self assigned ip mac os

  • Renew DHCP lease

One of the most common fixes to the ‘self-assigned IP issue’ is to renew the DHCP lease. A DHCP lease temporarily assigns an IP address to a device connected to the internet.

If the internet connection is malfunctioning, follow these steps to renew your DHCP lease:

  • Tap the Apple logo on the top-left menu bar, then visit the ‘System preferences’ section
  • Then click on ‘Network settings’ and click ‘Advanced’ in the Wi-Fi section
  • Then select the ‘TCP/IP’ section and tap on the ‘Renew DHCP lease’ button and select OK
  • After renewing the lease, check if you can connect to your Wi-Fi

self assigned ip mac os

  • Make a different network location/ new location

One way to fix self-assigned IP is to set up new network locations on your Mac. Follow the steps below to make a new network location:

  • Tap on the Apple logo from the menu bar and select ‘System preferences’
  • Enter the ‘Network settings’ then tap on ‘Drop-down menu’ near the Location tab
  • Then tap on ‘Edit locations’ and tap on the ‘+’ button and add a ‘new network location’ and tap on done
  • Choose ‘Wi-Fi’ or Ethernet; if not selected automatically
  • Then press on ‘Advanced’ button and again press the ‘Renew DHCP lease button’ and enter
  • This will set a ‘new location’ on the device
  • Reset Firewall

Primarily self-assigned IP address malfunction occurs when the system’s Firewall undergoes configuration problems. If you have performed significant configuration changes on a Mac, settings may not migrate properly. It causes a Firewall issue and might disrupt the network connection.

To fix the firewall configuration issue, follow these steps:

  • Click the ‘Finder’ icon to launch it, then select ‘Go to folder’ in the ‘Go’ menu bar
  • In the pop-up window, enter the following command /Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/
  • In the new window, delete the ‘com.apple.alf.plist’ command
  • After the Mac restarts, reboot it and check if the Wi-Fi connects

self assigned ip mac os

Note that after the system boots, you would have to allow connections for the numerous programs temporarily. 

  • Setup the service order in network settings

If your Mac has a self-assigned IP address issue, try resetting the service order of Wi-Fi in the network settings.

To set ‘Service order’ on Mac, follow these steps:

  • Select the Apple logo on the screen and click ‘system preferences’
  • Click on ‘Network icon and then press on the gear icon
  • Then tap ‘Set service order,’ and drag the services you are using at the start of the file
  • For example, if you are utilizing Wi-Fi, select ‘Wi-Fi’ and put it on the first number

self assigned ip mac os

  • Change DNS servers

DNS servers change the domain name to IP addresses. Try changing the DNS servers to see if the issue fixes. Follow these steps:

  • Select the Apple logo and click ‘system preferences,’ then click on the ‘Network’ icon
  • Select the Wi-Fi icon or Ethernet you use (if not selected already)
  • Then choose the ‘DNS’ tab in the ‘Advanced’ section and press ‘+.’
  • Add the following numbers to the DNS server list: ‘8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4, 1.1.1.1, 9.9.9.9’ and click ‘OK’
  • It will most likely fix the self-assigned IP address problem in your Mac

self assigned ip mac os

Contact an Apple support team tech. If the above methods do not fix your Mac’s self-assigned IP address issue.

What does self-assigned IP mean on Mac?

Self-assigned IP is one of the reasons why you are unable to use the internet on your device. It mainly occurs when your network router does not provide your device’s IP address, causing internet connection issues.

How do I give my Mac a static IP address?

You can give your Mac a static IP by following the steps below:

  • Select the Apple logo and click ‘System preferences’
  • Click on the ‘Network’ tab and then select the ‘Advanced button’ 
  • ON TCP/IP section, open the configure IPv4 list and select ‘manually’
  • Enter your IP settings in the field, and the static IP address will the assigned 

Conclusion 

By now, you must have learned how to fix self-assigned IP on your computer. Though it is not a huge problem, it does cause a lot of frustration among users. Hopefully, you found the article helpful and learned how to fix network malfunctions on your mac OS.

Share Article:

Marid is a lifelong tech enthusiast and is the lead editor of Macdentro.com. An expert on all things Apple and a lifelong Mac user. Marid has over 10 years of experience using Apple products including the Apple watch, Ipad and etc

How to Set Alarm On Mac? 6 Methods

Restoring trash on mac – a guide for mac trash recovery to recover deleted files, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Logo top

What is Self-Assigned IP and How to Fix it

self assigned ip mac os

The self-assigned IP error may prevent your Mac from connecting to the Internet. You may get an Internet connection error messages such as “Wi-Fi has the self-assigned IP address and will not be able to connect to the Internet.” If you investigate this issue further, you will see that the Network pane in System Preferences will also show a notification message saying “Self-Assigned IP” with a yellow dot instead of the regular “Connected” message under the network service, as you can see in the screenshot below. This problem may occur when Mac is connected to a wired, wireless (Wi-Fi), or hotspot connection.

Self-Assigned IP message in Network Settings

This problem occurs when a self-assigned IP address is issued to network interfaces. When this issue happens, not all computers connected to the same network may be affected. For example, in the same home, one Mac may have this problem while other similarly configured Macs may have no problem at all, even though they all are using the same Wi-Fi connection. This may mean that the root of the problem is how the problem Mac is configured. Several factors may cause this issue, such as:

  • Bad cable connections.
  • Not getting an IP from the router or modem.
  • Failure of the DHCP server.

Follow the steps below to address this problem. Please try the steps in this order. After trying each step, check to see if your problem is fixed. If it is not fixed and if you still see the Self-Assigned IP error, move to the next step.

Self-Assigned error troubleshooting steps

Check your router/modem : If you are connected over Wi-Fi, ensure that your Mac is not too far away from the router/modem.

Restart your router/modem and your Mac : You can do this easily. Simply disconnect the power cable to your router/modem. Wait 30 seconds. Then reconnect. Then restart your Mac. Click the Apple  menu and select Restart .

Renew DHCP Lease : On your Mac, open System Preferences and click on Network . Select the network service you want to connect to (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and click on Advanced . This will open a new window. Select the TCP/IP tab and click the Renew DHCP Lease . Then click OK .

Renew DHCP Lease button

Check your connection settings : On your Mac, go to System Preferences > Network . Then select the network that shows this error and click Advanced . Select the TCP/IP tab and then make sure that “Configure IPv4” and “Configure IPv6” are set to Using DHCP and Automatically , respectively.

DHCP settings page

Then click on the DNS tab, and delete any DNS servers that are listed there. Select them one by one and click on the minus button to remove them. Do not forget to click OK and Apply when you are done.

Create a new network location : On your Mac, open System Preferences and Network . Open the Location drop-down menu and select Edit Locations . Click the plus (+) button and add a new location, give it a name and click Done . Now you have two locations: Automatic and your new location. Select this new location and then click Apply .

Network Locations

Now, we will add a new Wi-Fi or Ethernet service, whichever you are using. Click the plus (+) sign under the network services on the left, select the Interface (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, etc.) and name it, then click Create . Then click Apply .

New network create screen

Now select the Self-Assigned IP network and then click the minus (-) button to delete it. Then click Apply . Does this newly created service connect?

Reset the system firewall: We can do that by deleting its preference file . Open a Finder window and then click Go and Go to Folder from the top menu bar. Enter /Library/Preferences/ and click Go .

Preferences

Once the Preferences folder is open, find the com.apple.alf.plist file. Delete this file (or place it on your Desktop; if you are not happy with what happens, you can put it back). Then restart your Mac.

Firewall Preference file

Related articles

  • How To Reset Network Settings On Mac
  • How To Use Network Utility on Mac
  • Mac Wi-Fi Connected But No Internet Access
  • iPhone Will Not Connect To A Known Wi-Fi Network, Fix

self assigned ip mac os

Dr. Serhat Kurt worked as a Senior Technology Director specializing in Apple solutions for small and medium-sized educational institutions. He holds a doctoral degree (or doctorate) from the University of Illinois at Urbana / Champaign and a master’s degree from Purdue University. He is a former faculty member. Here is his LinkedIn profile and Google Scholar profile . Email Serhat Kurt .

Similar Posts

Books app keeps crashing on iphone or ipad, how to fix.

I often use the Apple Books app (or iBooks), and one of the problems I experience…

How to Fix macOS Sonoma Wallpaper Problems

How to Fix macOS Sonoma Wallpaper Problems

Users are using X (formerly Twitter) and Apple Discussions to complain that they are unable to…

Slow iCloud Keychain Passwords/Forms Autofills On Mac

I was having this problem until recently. Every time I entered my password for something with…

How To Change Your Mac’s Name

This article explains how you can change your Mac computer’s name. Your Mac has a unique…

How to Remove Deleted Apps from Login Items on Mac

How to Remove Deleted Apps from Login Items on Mac

When you uninstall or delete an app on your Mac, you would usually like all of…

What Is a DMG File on Mac?

Maybe you are new to Mac, or maybe you just never stopped to learn about files…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories:

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Technology Simplified.

Self-Assigned IP Address Error on Mac: How to Fix?

By: Waseem Patwegar | November 15, 2022

If Wi-Fi or Ethernet is not working on your MacBook due to “Self-Assigned IP Address” error, you can find below the steps to restore network connectivity on your Mac.

Self Assigned IP Address On Mac

Self-Assigned IP Address on Mac

In a typical case of this nature, the MacBook appears to be connected to the Network (WiFi or Ethernet), but it fails to load webpages and comes up with “Self-Assigned IP” error.

As indicated by the wordings (Self-Assigned IP Address), the reason for this problem is due to your Mac Assigning itself an IP Address that is not valid or not recognized on the network.

Luckily, in most cases the problem of No Internet connectivity due to “Self-Assigned IP Address” can be fixed by rebooting the modem.

1. Power Cycle Modem/Router

Before going ahead with other methods, simply disconnect the Modem/Router from its power supply source > wait for 60 seconds and reconnect the Modem/Router back to its power supply.

After this, you should find internet working properly on your Mac, as it starts using a valid IP Address on both WiFi and Ethernet to connect to the network.

2. Renew DHCP Lease

1. Click on Apple Logo in the top menu-bar and select System Preferences… in the drop-down menu.

Open System Preferences on Mac

2. On System Preferences screen, click on the Network Icon.

Network Option in System Preferences Screen on Mac

3. On Network screen, select your Network ( Ethernet or WiFi ) in the side-menu and click on Advanced .

Advanced Option in Network Settings Screen on Mac

4. On the next screen, switch to TCP/IP tab and click on Renew DHCP Lease button.

Renew DHCP Lease Option on Mac

5. Click on OK to save the revised settings.

After the DHCP lease is renewed, you should be able to connect to internet

3. Delete PLIST Files

The problem of No Internet on Mac due to Self-assigned IP Address can be fixed by removing certain files related to network connectivity on your computer.

1. Click on the Finder Icon in taskbar > click on the Go tab in top-menu bar and select Go to Folder option in the drop-down menu.

Open Go to Folder on Mac

2. In Go-to window, Type /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ and click on the Go button.

Go to /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ Folder on Mac

4. In System Configuration folder, delete the following folders (right-click on the Folders and move them to trash).

  • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
  • com.apple.network.identification.plist
  • NetworkInterfaces.plist
  • Preferences.plist

Note: Your Mac will automatically recreate above Folders when it restarts.

5. Shutdown the MacBook > Wait for 30 seconds and Restart the Mac again and see if you can now connect to the internet.

4. Set Service Order

Make sure that your MacBook is always connecting to your preferred network type (WiFi or Ethernet).

1. Click on Apple Logo > System Preferences > Network > On the Network screen, click on the Gear icon and select Set Service Order option in the drop-down menu.

Set Service Order Tab on Mac Network Settings Screen

2. On Service Order window, drag your preferred Network (WiFi or Ethermet) to the top position.

Choose Preferred Network Type on Mac

3. Once you are done, click on OK to save the changes.

5. Create New Network Location

If you are still unable to connect to Internet, create a New Network Location on your Mac and renew its DCHP lease.

1. Click on Apple Logo > System Preferences > Network > On the Network screen, open the Location menu and select Edit Locations option.

Edit Network Locations on Mac

2. On the next screen, click on the Plus icon to Add New Location.

Add Network Location Option on Mac

3. On the next screen, type a Name for the New Network Location and click on Done .

Name New Network Location Option on Mac

4. After creating new location, select either WiFi or Ethernet in the side menu and click on Advanced .

5. On the next screen, switch to TCP/IP tab and click on Renew DHCP Lease .

6. Click on OK to save the new settings.

This should certainly fix “Self-Assigned IP Address problem and restore network connectivity on your Mac.

6. Switch to Google DNS

If your Mac is frequently struggling from Network connectivity issues, the problem might be due to the DNS Servers of your Internet Service provider being busy and clogged up.

To fix this issue, you can consider switching the DNS servers on your Mac to Google DNS or Open DNS.

  • Tips to Speed Up Slow MacBook, Mac Mini and iMac
  • How to Speed Up Slow Safari Browser on Mac

TL Logo New

How to Fix Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

MacBook

The self-assigned IP address error on a MAC is a common issue when the device cannot obtain an IP address from the router or DHCP server. It can cause Internet connectivity problems and make it difficult to access local network resources.

In this article, you will learn the causes of this error and provide troubleshooting steps to resolve it.

Content Table

What Does it Mean When It Says WiFi Has a Self-Assigned IP Address?

Self-Assigned IP Address Error

When a device says it has a “ self-assigned IP address ” on a WiFi network, it cannot obtain a valid IP address from the router. It can happen for various reasons, such as a conflict with another device on the network with the same IP address or an issue with the router’s DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) settings. 

Without a valid IP address, the device cannot access the internet or communicate with other devices on the network. To fix this issue, try restarting the device and router, checking for firmware updates, or manually changing the IP address.

What Are The Reasons for Self-Assigned IP Address Errors?

Several reasons for a self-assigned IP address error can occur on a MAC . Some of the most common causes include:

  • Incorrect network settings: The network settings on the MAC may be configured incorrectly, which can prevent it from obtaining an IP address from the router or DHCP server.
  • DHCP server issues: The DHCP server may be down or not working properly, which can prevent the MAC from obtaining an IP address.
  • Router issues: The router may malfunction or not be configured properly, which can prevent the MAC from obtaining an IP address.
  • Malware or viruses: Malware can infect the MAC and cause it to assign itself an IP address, preventing it from connecting to the internet or local network resources.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix a Self-Assigned IP Address Error on a Mac

To fix a self-assigned IP address error on a MAC , you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check network connection: Ensure that the MAC is connected to the network and that the network cable is securely plugged in.

MacBook - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

  • Renew DHCP lease: Try renewing the DHCP lease on the MAC by going to the “ System Preferences ” > “ Network ” > “Select Network” >” Advanced ” > “ TCP/IP ” tab, then click on the “Renew DHCP Lease” button.

Renew DHCP Lease - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

  • Reset the router: Try resetting it by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

Power Off Router - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

  • Check for updates: Make sure the MAC runs the latest software updates.

Update macOS - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

  • Disable VPN: If you are using a VPN, disable it and see if it helps.
  • Check for conflicting IP addresses: Make sure that no other devices on the network use the same IP address as the MAC.
  • Disable IPv6: Some users have reported disabling IPv6 on the MAC can fix the issue.

Disable IPv6 Mac - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

Some Bonus Fixes:

If the troubleshooting steps above do not resolve the self-assigned IP address error on your MAC , you may need to try some advanced solutions:

  • Check for malware or viruses: Make sure that the MAC is not infected with malware or viruses which can cause this issue.
  • Reinstall network adapter driver: Try reinstalling the network adapter driver on the MAC.
  • Check for hardware issues: Make sure that the network adapter on the MAC is functioning properly and that there are no hardware issues.
  • Reset NVRAM or PRAM: Try resetting the NVRAM or PRAM on the MAC.

Reset NVRAM - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

  • Contact technical support: If none of the above steps resolves the issue, contact technical support for further assistance.

It’s important to note that maintaining a stable network connection is crucial for the smooth operation of any device. A self-assigned IP address error can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but by following the steps outlined in this blog post, you should be able to resolve it quickly and get back to using your MAC as usual.

Additionally, it is always a good practice to keep your MAC updated, regularly check for malware and viruses, and ensure that the network adapter is working properly. It can help prevent self-assigned IP address errors and other network-related issues from occurring in the future.

How do I Fix the 169.254 IP Address on Mac?

If you’re experiencing an IP address of 169.254 on your Mac, your computer cannot obtain an IP address from your router. Various issues, such as a malfunctioning router or a conflict with another device on your network, can cause it. 

To fix this, you can restart your router and Mac and check for any conflicting devices on your network. Depending on whether the problem persists, you may need to configure your IP address settings on your Mac manually. 

You can do it by going to System Preferences > Network > Advanced > TCP/IP . Consult your router’s manual or contact your internet service provider for specific instructions.

Manual IP Config Mac - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

How do I Fix DHCP on Mac?

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, or DHCP, is a crucial network component in most networks. The device assigns IP addresses to devices connected to the network. Without it, devices may be unable to connect to the internet or communicate with other devices on the network. If you are experiencing issues with DHCP on your Mac, there are a few steps you can take to fix the problem.

The first step is to check your network settings. Make sure that your Mac is set to obtain an IP address automatically and that DHCP is enabled. If these settings are incorrect, you may need to enter them manually. If this does not fix the issue, try restarting your router or modem. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve DHCP issues.

Another solution is to clear your DHCP lease. It will force your Mac to request a new IP address from the DHCP server. To do this, open the Terminal app on your Mac, then type in “ sudo dhclient -r ,” followed by your admin password. It will release the current DHCP lease, and your Mac will request a new one.

Fix DHCP via Terminal - Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

If none of the above solutions works, your router may malfunction, or you might have a problem with your modem. Try contacting your internet service provider for assistance or checking for firmware updates for your router.

Various issues, including incorrect network settings, DHCP server issues, and router problems, can cause a self-assigned IP address error on a MAC. To fix this issue, you can try troubleshooting steps such as renewing the DHCP lease, resetting network settings, and resetting the router. 

In case these steps fail, you can try advanced solutions such as checking for malware or viruses, reinstalling the network adapter driver, and checking for hardware issues. If the problem persists, you may need to contact technical support.

Read : How to Fix if Mac Keyboard Not Working Properly?

Apple

Newsletters

  • Our sponsors
  • Watch Store
  • Hot topics:
  •  Apple deals 
  • Editor’s picks
  • Buying guides
  • Apple rumors

How To Fix Self-Assigned IP Addresses In Mac OS X [Video How-To]

By Michael Steeber • 6:06 am, March 5, 2011

DHCP

Not being able to get online can be a frustrating problem. It can cost hours of time and test your patience. See, Mac OS X doesn’t always work properly all of the time, and will occasionally assign itself an IP address, which will result in you being unable to connect to the internet. Luckily, there is an easy solution. You can use System Preferences to set a new Network Location, as well as renew your DHCP lease to fix the problem. This video will show you how to quickly fix the problem of self assigned IP addresses through System Preferences.

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

self assigned ip mac os

Cult of Mac Today

Our daily roundup of Apple news, reviews and how-tos. Plus the best Apple tweets, fun polls and inspiring Steve Jobs bons mots. Our readers say: "Love what you do" -- Christi Cardenas. "Absolutely love the content!" -- Harshita Arora. "Genuinely one of the highlights of my inbox" -- Lee Barnett.

self assigned ip mac os

The Weekender

The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.

Popular This Week

People are returning vision pro in droves … or are they, vision pro poll: more than half of cult of mac readers will return ‘magical’ headset, woah is this the new iphone 16 pro camera, why i don’t want to return my vision pro, why you shouldn’t care that apple began phasing out web apps, with this thing, your iphone 15 pro can go nearly naked, typing on vision pro: a scientific test with surprising results, what it’s really like to cook with apple vision pro, mechanical mac keyboard packs useful features into small package [review], how to charge the battery on your vision pro.

self assigned ip mac os

iOS Hacker

Best Accessories For 11-inch iPad Pro In 2024

  • Accessories

Best Fighter Jet Games For iPhone And iPad

Best darts games for iphone and ipad, how to factory reset apple vision pro.

  • Zip-rar tool
  • Zip browser

How To Fix Internet Not Working Due To Self-Assigned IP Address Issue

self assigned ip mac os

If your Mac is connected to a working Wi-Fi network but the Internet is still not working, then we have got the solution for you. A lot of times your Mac is issued a self-assigned IP, which causes the Internet to not work on the machine.

Despite the same Wi-Fi network working on other devices, the Mac will simply show no internet connection error and Internet will not work on it. In these situations Wi-Fi has the self-assigned IP address and will not connect to the Internet despite the Internet working on other devices.

On Mac’s Wi-Fi page the Wi-Fi will also show the Self-Assigned IP Address text instead of connected. This is a very annoying problem that can cause Internet to not work on your Mac. Not having a working Internet connection on your Mac due to Mac’s self assigned IP problem can prevent you for doing work and render your Mac useless.

Good thing is self-assigned IP issue on Mac is quite easy to solve. You can fix the self-assigned IP address issue and get the Internet to work again on your Mac by simply deleting a few files on your machine.

Simply follow the steps below from an administrator account and put the mentioned files in trash.

This solution works on all recent versions of macOS including macOS Ventura, macOS Monterey, macOS Big Sur and macOS Catalina.

Fix Self-Assigned IP Address Issue on Mac

You can use to solve the self-assigned IP address issue on your Mac running macOS Ventura, macOS Monterey, macOS Big Sur, macOS Catalina etc.

1. On your Mac launch finder and click on Macintosh HD. (Don’t see Macintosh HD? See here )

2. Click on the Library folder and go to Preferences.

3. Now click on the SystemConfiguration folder.

4. Next put the following files in trash.

  • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
  • com.apple.network.identification.plist
  • NetworkInterfaces.plist

5. Restart your Mac.

Once the reboot has taken place the Internet will start working and self assigned IP address issue will be resolved.

If you don’t see all the files mentioned above, then just delete the ones that are present and reboot your machine.

How to Reset Mac’s IP address

In case you’re looking to reset your Mac’s IP address to solve internet connection problems with your computer, then the following instructions will help. If deleting the files mentioned above does not help, then the steps to reset Mac IP address can also prove helpful in fixing self-assigned IP Mac problem.

On macOS Ventura or later

Below you can find instructions on how to reset Mac IP address if you are running macOS Ventura or later.

1. Click on the Apple logo from the top menu bar and then click on System Settings .

2. Now click on Wi-Fi option from the side pane.

3. Make sure your Mac is connected to your Wi-Fi network. Then click on ‘ Details… ‘ located next to Wi-Fi’s name.

4. Now click on TCP/IP button from the left side pane.

5. Next find the ‘ Renew DHCP Lease ‘ button on the right side of the window and click on it.

6. Click on OK button and using the toggle next to Wi-Fi turn off Wi-Fi and turn it back on after a few seconds.

By performing these steps you should be able to solve self-assigned IP issue on your Mac and Internet should start working once again.

On macOS Monterey or earlier

Here’s how you can reset Mac IP address if you are running macOS Monterey or earlier on your Mac.

1. On your Mac open System Preferences.

2. Click on Network icon.

3. Make sure Wi-Fi is selected from the side pane and then click on ‘Advanced’ button.

4. Now click on TCP/IP from the top navigation bar.

5. Next click on ‘Renew DHCP Lease’ button.

6. Click OK to exit and from the top menu click on the Wi-Fi button and turn off Wi-Fi.

7. After a few seconds turn Wi-Fi back on and connect your Mac to your Wi-Fi network.

8. At this point Self-Assigned IP address issue should get solved and Internet should start working again.

There you have it, this is how you can easily and quickly fix Self-Assigned IP address issue on Mac and get your Internet connection working once again. If you have any questions regarding this tutorial, then feel free to let us know in the comments section below.

  • troubleshooting

self assigned ip mac os

Hello I recently instakked BIG SUR on my late 2013 macbook pro and I am having trouble tethering my Iphone XR to it. I can tether using wifi, but when I attempt to tether using bluetooth, my phone shows as connected in bluetooth preferences on my macbook and iphone, with the connection/link symbol shown on my iphone, but the internet will not work. In Network the bluetooth Pan shows an orange dot, STATUS: CONNECTED, but underneath it says ‘internet-not-working-self-assigned-ip-address-issue’. Do you have any ideas on how to fix this, I followed your instructions from the link ( https://ioshacker.com/how-to/fix-internet-not-working-self-assigned-ip-address-issue ) on your website, but each time I restart the computer the files that I put into the trash and delete from the trash re-appear in the system configuration folder. Only 2 of the 3 files you suggested to trash are in the folder, – com.apple.network.identification.plist – is not in the folder. Any advice appreciated.

I’m running Monterrey on my MacBook Pro and was having problem with the self-assigned IP and cannot connect to the Internet. I followed what your article suggested, several times, but was still unable to resolve the problem. Are there other suggestions that you think I should try? Thank you.

I just had the same issue and none of the fixes found online worked. I have McAfee Security software installed and there was a service running called McAfeeSystemExtensions. I deactivated the service within the Network settings and problem resolved.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sign Up for Our Newsletters

Related posts, how to make iphone more secure in 2024, sim card not working on iphone try these fixes, best imac accessories to buy for 2024.

Fix self-assigned IP addresses in OS X

One common issue that has affected OS X systems is when network interfaces are issued a self-assigned IP address. Here is how to address this problem.

headshots_Topher_Kessler_140x100.jpg

One common issue that has affected OS X systems is when network interfaces are issued a self-assigned IP address, even though the system is connected to a network with a properly configured DHCP server. When this happens, other systems on the same network (often including similarly configured Macs) will be working just fine, indicating the problem lies with the Mac's configuration and is not a compatibility issue with the networking hardware.

Often when I encounter this issue, I find that people have recently made a relatively major configuration change to their systems, either by updating their OS version, performing an upgrade to another major release of OS X, migrating to a new system, or have just restored their systems from backup. Initial attempts to address the problem include creating new network locations to refresh the network port configurations, or manually refresh the DHCP lease to force a reconfiguration for the port. While these are good attempts, many times they do not fix the problem.

The reason OS X issues self-assigned IP addresses is to allow a network interface to create an ad-hoc network if needed, without the presence of an established network. However, this is only done if the network port detects a proper hardware connection but cannot communicate with the DHCP server to obtain an IP address. Usually the main culprit for this is configuration problems with the system's firewall.

When people perform major configuration changes to their systems, sometimes the settings may not migrate properly. One that seems particularly vulnerable to odd problems is the system firewall. Luckily the fix is a relatively easy one; all you have to do is remove the firewall's preferences and then reboot the system.

To reset the firewall, go to the /Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/ folder and remove the file called "com.apple.alf.plist," and then restart your computer. After the system boots, you may be prompted to allow incoming connections to numerous programs and services, so accept these for now (you can always go to the Firewall settings and deny or remove entries later on) and then try connecting to the network again. While configuration changes from migrating or restoring a system can lead to this problem, at other times major system crashes or power outages can do the same.

Questions? Comments? Have a fix? Post them below or e-mail us ! Be sure to check us out on Twitter and the CNET Mac forums .

Computing Guides

  • Best Laptop
  • Best Chromebook
  • Best Budget Laptop
  • Best Cheap Gaming Laptop
  • Best 2-in-1 Laptop
  • Best Windows Laptop
  • Best Macbook
  • Best Gaming Laptop
  • Best Macbook Deals

Desktops & Monitors

  • Best Desktop PC
  • Best Gaming PC
  • Best Monitor Under 200
  • Best Desktop Deals
  • Best Monitors
  • M2 Mac Mini Review

Computer Accessories

  • Best PC Speakers
  • Best Printer
  • Best External Hard Drive SSD
  • Best USB C Hub Docking Station
  • Best Keyboard
  • Best Webcams
  • Best Laptop Backpack

Photography

  • Best Camera to Buy
  • Best Vlogging Camera
  • Best Tripod
  • Best Waterproof Camera
  • Best Action Camera
  • Best Camera Bag and Backpack

Tablets & E-Readers

  • Best E-Ink Tablets
  • Best iPad Deals
  • Best E-Reader
  • Best Tablet
  • Best Android Tablet

3D Printers

  • Best 3D Printer
  • Best Budget 3D Printer
  • Best 3D Printing Filament
  • Best 3D Printer Deals

macOS User Guide

  • What’s in the menu bar?
  • Work on the desktop
  • Search with Spotlight
  • Quickly change settings
  • Get notifications
  • Open apps from the Dock
  • Organize your files in the Finder
  • Connect to the internet
  • Browse the web
  • Preview a file
  • Take a screenshot
  • Change your display’s brightness
  • Adjust the volume
  • Use trackpad and mouse gestures
  • Use Touch ID
  • Print documents
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Apps on your Mac
  • Work with app windows
  • Use apps in full screen
  • Use apps in Split View
  • Use Stage Manager
  • Get apps from the App Store
  • Install and reinstall apps from the App Store
  • Install and uninstall other apps
  • Create and work with documents
  • Open documents
  • Mark up files
  • Combine files into a PDF
  • Organize files on your desktop
  • Organize files with folders
  • Tag files and folders
  • Back up files
  • Restore files
  • Change System Settings
  • Choose your desktop wallpaper
  • Add and customize widgets
  • Use a screen saver
  • Add a user or group
  • Add your email and other accounts
  • Automate tasks with Shortcuts
  • Create Memoji
  • Change your login picture
  • Change the system language
  • Make text and other items on the screen bigger
  • Set up a Focus to stay on task
  • Set up Screen Time for yourself
  • Use Dictation
  • Send emails
  • Send text messages
  • Make a FaceTime video call
  • Edit photos and videos
  • Use Live Text to interact with text in a photo
  • Start a Quick Note
  • Get directions
  • Work across devices using Continuity
  • Use iPhone as a webcam
  • Use iPhone with Desk View
  • Stream audio and video with AirPlay
  • Use one keyboard and mouse to control Mac and iPad
  • Hand off between devices
  • Unlock your Mac with Apple Watch
  • Make and receive phone calls on your Mac
  • Sync music, books, and more between devices
  • Manage Apple ID settings
  • Set your Apple ID picture
  • What is iCloud?
  • What is iCloud+?
  • Store files in iCloud Drive
  • Share and collaborate on files and folders
  • Manage iCloud storage
  • Use iCloud Photos
  • What is Family Sharing?
  • Set up Family Sharing
  • Set up Screen Time for a child
  • Share purchases with your family
  • Watch and listen together with SharePlay
  • Share a Photo Library
  • Collaborate on projects
  • Find content shared with you
  • Find your family and friends
  • Play games with your friends
  • Listen to podcasts
  • Watch TV shows and movies
  • Read and listen to books
  • Read the news
  • Track stocks and the market
  • Apple Music
  • Apple Arcade
  • Apple News+
  • Podcast shows and channels
  • Manage subscriptions in the App Store
  • View Apple family subscriptions
  • Guard your privacy
  • Use Mail Privacy Protection
  • Control access to your camera
  • Use Sign in with Apple for apps and websites
  • Set up your Mac to be secure
  • Keep your data safe
  • Create a passkey
  • Understand passwords
  • Keep your Apple ID secure
  • Find a missing device
  • Get started with accessibility features
  • Connect an external display
  • Use the built-in camera
  • Connect a Bluetooth device
  • Use AirPods with your Mac
  • Optimize your Mac battery life
  • Optimize storage space
  • Burn CDs and DVDs
  • Control accessories in your home
  • Use Windows on your Mac
  • Resources for your Mac
  • Resources for your Apple devices

self assigned ip mac os

Use DHCP or a manual IP address on Mac

An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a number that identifies each computer across the internet or a network. When you connect to the internet or an IP network, your computer needs an IP address.

Your IP address can be provided in two main ways:

Automatically: Your computer is assigned an address using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP).

Manually: Your ISP or network administrator gives you an IP address, and you enter it in Network settings.

Follow these steps to enter your IP address or have it assigned automatically.

self assigned ip mac os

Open Network settings for me

Click the network connection you want to use on the right, then click Details.

Click TCP/IP.

Click the Configure IPv4 pop-up menu, then choose an option:

If your address is assigned automatically, choose Using DHCP.

If your ISP or administrator gave you an IP address, choose Manually, then enter the address in the IP address field. If your ISP gave you additional information such as the subnet mask and router, enter those values in the labeled fields.

self assigned ip mac os

Note: Most IP addresses are IPv4 addresses, which look like a series of numbers separated by three periods, similar to this: 123.45.67.89. If you received an IP address that’s a longer series of numbers and letters, divided by seven colons (for example, fa80:0000:0000:0123:0203:93ee:ef5b:44a0), it’s a different type of IP address called IPv6. To enter an IPv6 address, click the Configure IPv6 pop-up menu, choose Manually, then enter your IPv6 address.

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Mac Ethernet "Self-Assigned IP" when plugged into Switch

I recently purchased a tp-link 16-Port Gigabit switch for my home and put all my network cables through it.

While my PC running Windows 10 works fine, my iMac (20-inch, Early 2008, Running Yosemite) isn't and flips to "Self-Assigned IP" after.

I tried switching the network cables between the PC and the Mac. The PC accepts the new cable fine, the Mac tries and goes back to "Self-Assigned IP"

I tried switching that particular cable attached to the Mac from coming off the Switch to coming off my Belkin router and then it works fine.

Initially the Wifi didn't work either but I tried restarting the modem, router & switch and now I can get the wifi to connect but not the Ethernet.

I also tried all the tips I found online including disabling passive FTP and deleting com.apple.alf.plist and none of those seemed to work

As a temporary fix I have kept that particular cable plugged into the router but I'm curious if anyone has any ideas

Michael's user avatar

  • 3 All I can think of is a DHCP conflict. Assuming you added a switch because you have a large number of devices to plug in. Try this, unplug/shut down all devices from the switch and Belkin. Leave just the switch plugged in to the Belkin. Now, reboot the Belkin. Once it is online, plug in the Mac to the switch. See if you get a valid IP address. Now, one by one power on/re-connect other devices. If all these devices were 'ON' when you were adding this switch there could be a conflict of IP addresses. –  Appleoddity Oct 10, 2017 at 3:40
  • @Appleoddity I figured it out. I was going Modem > Switch > Router. I changed this to Modem > Router > Switch and all is well. I couldn't have done it without your advice so thank you very much for your help. –  Michael Oct 25, 2017 at 1:32

For posterity, I resolved this issue by changing the order of the devices. The error was happening when I had it setup as Modem to Switch to Router. By changing this to Modem to Router to Switch I immediately resolved the issue. I hope this helps another networking newbie in the future.

  • 2 Wow. Yeah, that will do it. The thought never crossed my mind maybe the basics weren't right. :) –  Appleoddity Oct 25, 2017 at 2:05

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for browse other questions tagged networking mac switch ..

  • The Overflow Blog
  • Would you trust an AI bot to find the fix for vulnerabilities in your code?
  • Featured on Meta
  • Site maintenance - Saturday, February 24th, 2024, 14:00 - 22:00 UTC (9 AM - 5...
  • Upcoming privacy updates: removal of the Activity data section and Google...

Hot Network Questions

  • Applications of High School Geometry
  • "Could not load source layer for INPUT" error when reprojecting flt-file with PyQGIS
  • Odd use(s) of "bauen"
  • Is it legal for a bank to trap you in an ATM vestibule?
  • Circuit current flow
  • Why is the key typically the first and/or last note (or chord) of a song?
  • What is the best, or most logical way to have my dragon breath lightning
  • In the London, after 1.d4 d5 2.Bf4 c5 3.dxc5 Nc6 4.Nf3, why is "blocking your bishop" the best move
  • Animated movie with dragons and a boy and girl from warring factions/kingdoms
  • What's the difference between With and ReplaceAll?
  • Strings without twin letters
  • Brute force against DES
  • Increasing trust in a downloaded binary
  • Paintless (raw) aluminium enclosures connected to Earth: Bad practice?
  • Trying to understand reality lead to understanding useless things?
  • Is it okay for a co-author to share an unfinished manuscript with others?
  • Is there a one-state PDA that recognizes every context free language?
  • Could Israel's PM Netanyahu get an arrest warrant from the ICC for war crimes, like Putin did because of Ukraine?
  • Use of double colon (::) as a sentence separator
  • Add rules to Minesweeper until you can start with nothing
  • The meaning of 我看你呀
  • \cref : "Argument of \textsf has an extra }."
  • What legal rights does a german landlord have over you if you stop paying rent?
  • Is there a reason to use both top or both bottom screws on a standard outlet?

self assigned ip mac os

IP address over ethernet is self-assigned when using a gigabit adapter

I'm using a MacBook Air, M2, running Sonoma 14.1.2.

It connects OK to the internet over Wi-Fi but cannot connect over ethernet when using a gigabit adapter in an outbuilding in the garden.

This is the situation:

The garden is small, and we have an office there, but the wi-fi is unreliable as the office has thick walls; therefore, I need to be able to use the ethernet connection we have from the living room in the house to the office .

  • Macbook can connect on wi-fi everywhere in the house and office (but unreliably in the office).
  • Macbook can connect on ethernet in the living room , straight from the router, using a Belkin USB-C LAN adapter.
  • Macbook cannot connect on ethernet in the office , using same Belkin USB-C LAN adapter. It gets a self-assigned IP address, or a green light, but no data comes through.
  • Husband's iMac can connect on ethernet in the office. His iMac doesn't need an adapter, it has an ethernet port.
  • Husband's iMac cannot connect on ethernet in the office if ethernet cable is coming out of a TP-Link TL-SG1005D, 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch.

Troubleshooting (none of this solved the problem, apart from number 4 temporarily)

  • Re-started router, laptop.
  • Contacted my internet provider to check there were no issues with our line.
  • Started Macbook on safe mode.
  • Created new user in Macbook with admin rights and connected succesfully in the office. This happened only once and hasn't happened again.
  • Re-installed previous operating system MacOS Ventura after using repair utility.
  • Upgraded to Sonoma.
  • Renewed DHCP lease.
  • Added DNS servers: 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4, 1.1.1.1, 9.9.9.9

Summary: MacBook air would only connect to the internet if straight from the router (with the Belkin adapter, as it does not have an ethernet port). If I need to add another step to this physical connection (through the CAT5e socket at the wall in the office, or the TP-Link switch) it self-assigns an address. This is the case for husband's iMac too, it would only work if there are no extra physical steps in the office, i.e. not through the TP-Link switch.

I have tried everything I can think of, and I have read many threads with no solution.

If anyone can crack this horrible puzzle, I would be SO grateful. Thanks!

MacBook Air, macOS 14.1

Posted on Dec 2, 2023 11:17 AM

Loading page content

Page content loaded

Dec 3, 2023 2:59 AM in response to John Galt

John, thank you very much for taking the time to read my post and answer it. I really appreciate it, as it has been such a frustrating experience to make any sense of the situation with not much knowledge of any of the parts.

I think you're on the right track, and your suspicion is probably correct, based on your explanation of how Gigabit Ethernet is unforgiving of faults.

I did spot two new things after I wrote this post, which may corroborate your suspicion:

The iMac (which is connecting to the ethernet in the office) is doing the following:

  • The speed at which it connects to the internet is so much slower than when connecting a computer to the ethernet straight from the router in the living room.
  • The speed at which the hardware (from System Settings -> Ethernet -> Details -> Hardware -> Configure -> Automatic -> Speed) is 10baseT , which is super slow but, interestingly, automatically chosen as such by the iMac.

I'll let you know what I find once I isolate where the problem is!

John Galt

Dec 2, 2023 2:54 PM in response to srome21

The extensive troubleshooting you performed seems to indicate the problem lies somewhere between the CAT5e socket at the wall in the office and the router. I realize the iMac was able to connect using that same office socket, but only without the Belkin adapter. Introducing the Belkin adapter causes it to fail. You know the adapter itself is ok though, because you can successfully use it when you connect directly to the router in the living room.

If my understanding is correct, the explanation may be that the Belkin adapter is unable to negotiate a connection through that office socket and the router. What that suggests is a Cat5e connection that is not actually meeting the rigorous Cat5e standards. The Belkin adapter itself may be ok but the connection isn't good enough.

The fact the TP-Link switch causes the same failure may be another indication of that substandard office connection. You didn't say whether it was involved in it or not though, or if you tried a different cable.

Lacking some independent testing equipment, the most expedient way of confirming my suspicion is to completely bypass that office socket with a sufficiently long Ethernet cable. Gigabit Ethernet is unforgiving of substandard connectors or wiring. Not enough twists per inch, or a broken / intermittent connection, and things won't work.

Try bypassing that office Ethernet port. I think you will find the culprit will be in the office connections or cables you had been using, and your challenge is to isolate the cause.

Dec 3, 2023 11:43 AM in response to srome21

The following is paraphrased from my notes regarding a discussion I had with an Apple engineer several years ago. The subject of the discussion was the amount of time it took to establish a fast and reliable Ethernet connection. It was taking on the order of 30 seconds or so, and I was wondering why it took so long to establish compared to a comparably fast wireless connection.

"The minimum protocol required to enable an Ethernet connection is 10Base-T.

"When you connect a 1000Base-T (1 GigE) switch, adapter, or other device, the protocol that communicates the Speed / Duplex / Flow Control between the devices is known as Auto-Negotiation. Auto-Negotiation requires only 2 pairs of conductors. The maximum available capability is subsequently shared between the devices.

"If the maximum shared speed for both sides is agreed to be 1 G then the link needs 4 pairs of conductors to sustain that speed. If only 2 conductor pairs are available, both devices will conclude the 4 pair connection is unreliable in way, and will then enter a search mode to find a speed that will work on any available 2 pairs of conductors."

The conclusion we reached was that "search mode" is not as fast as wireless due to that negotiation. If the hardware implemented to test that link is determined to be sufficiently compromised, it will abandon that 4 pair operation and revert to a lower speed which is sustained for the duration of the connection.

From that discussion I learned that the apparently simple Ethernet connection is not so simple after all, and yes it confirms our suspicion that your office-to-router link is not conforming to Gigabit Ethernet requirements. It may not even be conforming to 100Base-T requirements. I suspect you will ultimately find one or more broken or intermittent conductors or connections, and that repairing them will solve the problem. The required number of twists per inch is specified. Exceeding even the maximum length of any particular un-twisted pairs of conductors can affect its negotiated speed.

Since that discussion I learned a lot more about Gigabit Ethernet. The paraphrased notes I created at the time are exceedingly brief.

Dec 3, 2023 11:49 AM in response to John Galt

Thanks again, John. I have decided to get a tradesman to have a look, as I think it is likely to be something I cannot easily fix myself, as I don't have the equipment or the knowledge to test the sockets or the cable from the house to the office. Your responses and all the troubleshooting I've done really point to that. As soon as I find out what is going on, I'll share!

Dec 15, 2023 5:26 AM in response to John Galt

Hi John, I wanted to thank you again and tell you how my problem got solved. I'm writing to you from the office, connected to the ethernet from the computer, which couldn't go online before :)

An electrician came today. He worked out that pair 2 was failing (when he connected his tester). This was a simple fix, as one of the ends of the cable in the office was loose. However, I couldn't still use a switch, and the speeds in the officer were 9mbps. We get 65 Mbps in the house.

I mentioned your thoughts, and he went ahead and tidied up the connection in the office by shortening the bits of cable in the socket. At this point, he realised some of the cables were brittle and cut enough of them off to get rid of them and reconnect them again.

As a result, things got fixed; I'm using a switch and getting the same speed as in the house.

I'm so grateful for your patience in reading all my troubleshooting and recommending the next steps for me. I'm so happy things are fixed now! It took so much time and effort, and when you responded, I was at the end of my tether with this problem, so hearing your thoughts and recommendations was very valuable. Thank you.

Dec 15, 2023 7:41 AM in response to srome21

Great! Glad to hear it.

Thank you for the explanation of the reason. When you find an intermittent connection due to brittle conductors it's very likely all them are in need of attention, so the electrician did it right.

I imagine it didn't cost very much.

Dec 3, 2023 12:01 PM in response to srome21

A reasonably qualified electrician should be able to diagnose the problem in no time. Don't go crazy searching for a network engineer or something.

IMAGES

  1. How To Fix Self-Assigned IP Addresses In Mac OS X [Video How-To]

    self assigned ip mac os

  2. How to Fix Self Assigned IP Address Error on Mac

    self assigned ip mac os

  3. Fix Self-Assigned IP Address Issue On Mac

    self assigned ip mac os

  4. How To Fix Internet Not Working Due To Self-Assigned IP Address Issue

    self assigned ip mac os

  5. wifi has self assigned ip address

    self assigned ip mac os

  6. How to Fix the Self Assigned IP Address Issue on Mac

    self assigned ip mac os

VIDEO

  1. BAM to BIM: Software Interoperability Automated Workflow with Arup

  2. Stitch Fix ~ Box 77 ~ A true 5 for 5!!! Get Your $25 Credit now! Jan 2024

  3. WHAT IS ARP?

  4. Easy Fix for Self Assigned IP Address Issue on Mac OS X via Keychain Access

  5. networking

  6. how to find IP and MAC address in windows

COMMENTS

  1. How do I get rid of a self assigned IP ad…

    Level 1 31 points How do I get rid of a self assigned IP address? I've tried all the usual things like restarting the computer and modem. Other devices in the house are able to connect. Sitting side by side. I've had this iMac for a number of years but never encountered this before.

  2. How to fix "self-assigned IP address" issue on Mac

    What does "self-assigned IP address" mean on Mac? The "self-assigned IP address" error on Mac refers to a situation where your device assigns an IP address and sets up an ad-hoc network instead of obtaining one from the network router or DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server.

  3. Self assigned IP address

    Level 1 8 points Jan 7, 2017 10:48 AM in response to jkaps90 Hi I know is been a long time since this post but this self assigned IP adress issue just happened to me 1-6-17 and on 1-7-17 found a solution. With this post from jkas90 . Thanks jkaps90 and everyone else that takes the time to help others . Reply MiNdDiViDeD Level 1

  4. How to fix "self-assigned IP address" error on Mac

    A self-assigned IP address signals a connectivity issue with either your DHCP server, the network, or the system's firewall configuration. Causes of the "self-assigned IP address" error Below are the most common causes behind the self-assigned IP address error appearing on your Mac: DHCP server issues.

  5. What Is A Self Assigned IP Address And How To Fix This Mac Error

    Mac's self-assigned IP error prevents your computer from establishing a working internet connection, rendering the Mac essentially useless. Let's look at a self-assigned IP address and what you can do to fix it. What is a Self-Assigned IP Address?

  6. What does "self assigned IP address mean"…

    1.1.1.1 9.9.9.9 Apply. View in context Similar questions Connecting to WiFi When I try to connect my MacBook to the internet it tells me my internet doesn't have a IP address. What do I do?

  7. How to Fix the Self Assigned IP Address Issue on Mac

    What does self-assigned IP mean on Mac? How do I give my Mac a static IP address? Conclusion Fixes for the self-assigned IP address issue Self-assigned IP issues can frustrate users and cause internet issues. But, fret not, you can fix self-assigned IP address malfunction using any of the methods mentioned below: Restart your modem

  8. What is Self-Assigned IP and How to Fix it • macReports

    Check your connection settings: On your Mac, go to System Preferences > Network. Then select the network that shows this error and click Advanced. Select the TCP/IP tab and then make sure that "Configure IPv4" and "Configure IPv6" are set to Using DHCP and Automatically, respectively.

  9. Self-Assigned IP Address Error on Mac: How to Fix?

    The problem of No Internet on Mac due to Self-assigned IP Address can be fixed by removing certain files related to network connectivity on your computer. in taskbar > click on the tab in top-menu bar and select Go to Folder option in the drop-down menu. In Go-to window, Type /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ and click on the

  10. How to Fix Self-assigned IP Address Error on Mac

    Renew DHCP lease: Try renewing the DHCP lease on the MAC by going to the " System Preferences " > " Network " > "Select Network" >" Advanced " > " TCP/IP " tab, then click on the "Renew DHCP Lease" button. Reset the router: Try resetting it by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.

  11. How To Fix Self-Assigned IP Addresses In Mac OS X [Video How-To]

    See, Mac OS X doesn't always work properly all of the time, and will occasionally assign itself an IP address, which will result in you being unable to connect to the internet. Luckily, there...

  12. How To Fix Internet Not Working Due To Self-Assigned IP ...

    1. On your Mac launch finder and click on Macintosh HD. (Don't see Macintosh HD? See here) 2. Click on the Library folder and go to Preferences. 3. Now click on the SystemConfiguration folder. 4. Next put the following files in trash. com.apple.airport.preferences.plist com.apple.network.identification.plist

  13. Fix self-assigned IP addresses in OS X

    The reason OS X issues self-assigned IP addresses is to allow a network interface to create an ad-hoc network if needed, without the presence of an established network. However, this is...

  14. macos

    4 Answers Sorted by: 3 Somtimes issues like these can arise from malformed network preferences. Try deleting (or just moving/renaming) these files: /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/preferences.plist Share Improve this answer Follow answered Sep 8, 2009 at 15:04 jweede 6,853 3 38 39 Add a comment 1

  15. Resolve IP address conflicts on Mac

    Close the app that is using the connection (such as Safari or Messages), then open the app again. Put your computer to sleep, wait a few minutes, then wake it from sleep. Try connecting again. Close all open apps and restart your computer. If you entered your IP address manually, make sure you entered the correct address.

  16. How to fix issue

    11.3K subscribers 70K views 2 years ago Mac computer technician blog Video showing how to fix issue - Self-Assigned IP address Mac Detailed instructions -...

  17. Self assigned IP address on iMac

    self-assigned IP my iMac crashed, had to re-install everything, now my ethernet connection shows a yellow sign and says 'ethernet has a self-assigned IP address and will no be able to connect to the internet'. That's a bummer, as it worked before the crash and since my wifi signal in this room is weak......

  18. networking

    1 I have had a situation where I cannot access the internet and the network preferences list ethernet interface connected to DSL modem has self assigned IP address and cannot connect. It is set to connect via DHCP. I Googled this problem and the instruction was to remove a file called com.apple.alf.plist from /Library/Preferences and then reboot.

  19. Use DHCP or a manual IP address on Mac

    On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Network in the sidebar. (You may need to scroll down.) Click the network connection you want to use on the right, then click Details. Click TCP/IP. Click the Configure IPv4 pop-up menu, then choose an option: If your address is assigned automatically, choose Using DHCP.

  20. macos

    3 Answers. A self assigned IP address suggests that your system did not receive an IP address from a DHCP or similar protocol. As Otto Andy Heiskanen mentions, restarting the DHCP server (by rebooting the router) can solve this issue often. However you mention your Linux environment does get an IP address, which could point at a different cause.

  21. Mac Ethernet "Self-Assigned IP" when plugged into Switch

    Leave just the switch plugged in to the Belkin. Now, reboot the Belkin. Once it is online, plug in the Mac to the switch. See if you get a valid IP address. Now, one by one power on/re-connect other devices. If all these devices were 'ON' when you were adding this switch there could be a conflict of IP addresses. - Appleoddity.

  22. IP address over ethernet is self-assigned…

    Macbook can connect on ethernet in the living room, straight from the router, using a Belkin USB-C LAN adapter. Macbook cannot connect on ethernet in the office, using same Belkin USB-C LAN adapter. It gets a self-assigned IP address, or a green light, but no data comes through. Husband's iMac can connect on ethernet in the office.

  23. MacOS Monterey self assigned IP troubleshooting : r/MacOS

    r/MacOS • 2 yr. ago Senior_Device_2312 MacOS Monterey self assigned IP troubleshooting Help Hi all, I've got a computer on our work network that will not accept a DHCP address. It reports as "Self Assigned IP" with yellow in Network preferences.