Verify each computer in the LAN can ping the other computers. Also verify that each computer can ping the routerÕs gateway IP address [10.10.20.250]. If any of the assigned IP addresses fail to generate a reply, troubleshoot and correct the problem(s) until all devices can ping each other.

The difficulty arises when your computer asks for an IP address and no one responds.

Whether due to a network problem — maybe not being on a network at all — or perhaps a lack of DHCP server to hand out IP addresses, the result is the same: the request for an IP address assignment goes unanswered.

Your machine waits for a while and then gives up.

But when it gives up, it invokes what’s called Automatic Private IP Addressing, or APIPA, and makes up its own IP address. And those “made up” IP addresses all begin with 169.254.

Limited connectivity

Situations resulting in a 169.254.x.x IP address are flagged as “limited connectivity” in Windows.

If you see that status associated with your network connectivity, then you’re facing the problem discussed here. Your machine almost certainly has a 169.254.x.x IP address.

Explanation: