mac says wifi has self assigned ip address

6 Easy ways to fix self-assigned IP address issue on Mac

macOS users often experience a self-assigned IP address issue that allows the network interface to create an ad-hoc connection if necessary. This means that even though you have working Wi-Fi, the “internet not working” messages will keep popping up.

Your system will create an ad-hoc network only if they find the hardware but have issues communicating with the DHCP server to obtain your IP address. The issue lies within the system’s Firewall configuration problems, and there are many ways to resolve it.

Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to fix the self-assigned IP error on a Mac.

Reset your network preferences on Mac

• Renew DHCP lease on macOS

Create a new network location

Reset the firewall on your mac.

• Set Service Order from Mac’s Network settings

Change DNS servers on macOS

• Launch Finder .
• In the menu bar, click Go → Go to Folder .
• In the pop-up window enter the mentioned line: /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/

• Restart your Mac.
• Log in and connect to your Wi-Fi network.
• Go to the TCP/IP setting again and check the router files.

After your Mac restarts, you should be able to find the deleted files in your folder.

Renew DHCP Lease on macOS

• Click on the Apple logo .
• Go to System Preferences .
• Find and go to Network settings.

• Click the Advanced button.

• Find and click the Renew DHCP Lease button next to the IPv4 Address line.

After the lease is renewed, check if you’re able to connect to your network. If that doesn’t help, try creating a New Network Location and renew the lease.

• Click the Apple logo .
• Go to System Preferences.

• Click Edit Locations.

• Name the New Network Location.
• Click Done .
• Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet . Mostly, these options are selected by default.
• Go to the TCP/IP tab.

Try connecting to your network after renewing the lease.

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.

• In the pop-up window, enter in: /Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/
• Delete the following file: com.apple.alf.plist

After your system boots, it’ll ask you to allow access to numerous programs and services. You may choose to allow access to numerous programs and services depending upon your choice. Try connecting to your network then.

Set Service Order from Mac’s network settings

• Click the gear icon at the bottom.

• Drag services to the top of the list.

If you’re using Wi-Fi, drag and drop Wi-Fi to the top.

• Click the Apple logo → Go to System Preferences .
• Navigate to Network settings
• Select your Wi-Fi or Ethernet . Usually, they are selected by default.

• Click the + icon.
• Add these numbers: 8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4 1.1.1.1 9.9.9.9

If you’re still having self-assigned IP address problems, get in touch with the Apple Support team.

Which one of these methods worked best for you? Let me know in the comments. If none of these methods work, you may need to contact Apple Support .

Read more: 

• Set an alarm on Mac: 5 Methods explained
• How to Copy and Paste on Mac
• Find the MAC address on an iPhone or iPad
• How to find a router IP address on Mac (3 Easy ways)

An entrepreneur by heart, I am obsessed with the world of Apple. I survive on Apple products and their updates. Over the last five years, I have been writing all kinds of content that are remotely connected to Apple and sharing across digital platforms. When not writing, you will find me on the court playing basketball or in my room playing the sitar.

After much internet searching – these clear, easy directions were a lifesaver. The second suggestion worked perfectly! Thank you!!

Thank you sooooo much !!! I was really struggling to get my Ethernet adapter to connect to my MacBook and I tried the first option and it works now!!!! God bless you and your family.

Thank you soooo much. Resetting the Firewall worked

THANK YOU!!!!! What a PITA this has been. Four hours of struggle, and your post solved the prop in seconds. I could climb through my phone and kiss you I’m so happy! Hero!

Thank you soo muchhh!!! Finally after 3 hours desperated, and you helped me 😭👍

Your directions and explanations were clear, easy to follow, and a perfect translation of technical for a layman.

Thank you very much for this fix tips!

I was ready to completely reboot my whole MPB to its factory settings. What worked best for me was your tip called: Create a new network location.

Thanks again. Remko

Yesss!! Resetting the firewall did it for me!

changing DNS worked!! thank you

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

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

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.

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How To Fix Common Connection Wi-Fi Issue: Self-assigned IP On MacBook

Most of the time, WiFi works very well. It’s fast, and it’s convenient. But sometimes, you might experience some issues with connecting to your WiFi network, like your WiFi connection dropping out for no apparent reason. In this article, we’re going to talk about how to fix a common WiFi issue — one that’s related to how your Mac assigns itself an IP address.

Most wireless internet connections require a unique IP address to allow users to access their network remotely. These are typically assigned by a router or other networking equipment via DHCP, a protocol that hands out IP addresses. Some users have reported errors with their network connections when this process is interrupted. These issues are usually easy to fix, but they can cause frustration if you don’t know how.

Apple laptops are known for their reliability, but that doesn’t mean they never have any problems. From common issues like wi-fi dropping out, to more serious problems such as hard drive failure, Apple is renowned for producing solid hardware that is generally quite reliable, and doesn’t break down as much as PCs.

In this article, you will find some solutions that will help you solve the Wi-Fi problem on your MacBook. We use a MacBook as one of our mobile devices to increase productivity. Sometimes in a new place we need to connect our MacBook to the local Wi-Fi network to access the Internet. See also: To recover the Mac 36 error code Sometimes the Wi-Fi is already connected, but we still can’t access the Internet while our friends can, usually with their MacBooks. In this case, first check your MacBook’s Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar. Source: technobezz If you see an exclamation mark (! ) next to the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar, as in the image above, it means that there is a network problem. Click on the Wi-Fi icon and you will probably see the following. Source: technobezz

To solve a common Wi-Fi connection problem Self-assigned IP on MacBook

There are many causes for not being able to connect to the Internet, and the automatically assigned IP is one of them. We will troubleshoot and repair the self-assigned IP on the MacBook. I would like to propose a solution to this problem. If you are using Mac OS X 10.5 or higher and experience this problem, try the following.

First thing: Checking network settings

Tap the Apple menu > System Preferences > Network In this section, make sure that the Location (1) option is set to Automatic, as shown in the figure below, and then click Advanced (2). Source: technobezz After clicking on the Advanced button (2), a new window will appear as shown in the figure below. Click on the TCP/IP tab and you will see this screen. Source: technobezz You have to pay attention to two things: Configure IPv4 (1) and configure the router (2). If you encounter a basic problem where Configure IPv4 is set to Use DHCP but no IP is set on the router, try the following steps to resolve the issue.

Troubleshooting steps

• Click on the Finder icon, and then click Go > Go to folder on the menu bar.

Source: technobezz

• After clicking the Go to Folder button, enter : /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/

Source: technobezz Message: This resets all network configurations. If you have no problem losing your network configuration, you can continue with the following steps.

• Delete the files I highlighted in the image below. You will be prompted to enter the administrator password.
• Reboot your MacBook. After logging in, try to connect to the same WLAN. Check and make sure the advanced window displays the router’s IP address.

Source: technobezzWi-Fi is simple to set up, but many users have reported connection issues, where their computer cannot connect to the internet over Wi-Fi. There are a number of reasons why this happens, and we have put together a list of the most common ones.. Read more about self-assigned ip address iphone and let us know what you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i fix self-assigned ip address on mac wifi.

So, you’ve changed your Wi-Fi network name or password, but can’t seem to connect your MacBook to the network. You’ve tried everything, but you get the dreaded message: “This computer has a self-assigned IP address.” The good news is that this is a fixable problem. If it’s not too late, you can get your MacBook online and start browsing the Web again. When you self-assign an IP address on your Mac, it means that there is a conflict with the existing IP address on your network. This is not an issue, but it can be if you want to connect to the internet. Here are some steps you can take to fix this issue.

Why does my Mac say self-assigned IP address?

The Wi-Fi icon on your Mac displays the IP address of the computer. The IP address can be assigned by a router or DHCP server. Your Mac’s IP address is self-assigned if your Mac has not communicated with a DHCP server or used the built-in DHCP server on your router. Mac users that have enabled the “Airport” feature on their Mac have a built-in DHCP server. While the self-assigning IP address is not an error, it can be problematic if you are not using a DHCP server. If your router or network does not have a DHCP server configured, the self-assigned address can prevent you from connecting to the Internet. The self-assigned IP address might appear when you are connecting your Mac to a network. The IP address comes from a private range of IP addresses, called an RFC1918 range. These addresses are not approved for Internet use, but are often used on local area networks. Self-assigned addresses indicate the computer is set up incorrectly and needs to be reconfigured so that it will use a publicly-reserved IP address.

What is self-assigned IP address for MacBook Pro?

This is a common problem with Macbook pro users. When you connect your Macbook Pro to a Wi-fi network, the IP address gets assigned to your Macbook by the router. But there are cases when the IP address assigned to your Macbook is ‘self assigned’ and that’s not a good thing. If you are a Mac User and you have set your Mac laptop to use a specific IP address then you can change it. However, if you don’t know what is self-assigned IP address and you want to know how to change it, then you are reading the right article.

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Technology Simplified.

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

By: Waseem Patwegar

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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How To Fix Common Connection Wi-Fi Issue: Self-assigned IP On MacBook

Here, you will find some solutions that will help you fix the Wi-Fi issue on the MacBook. Sometimes, in a new place, we have to connect our MacBook to a local Wi-Fi to access the Internet.

Sometimes the Wi-Fi may already be connected, but we still cannot access the Internet. In this case, check your MacBook’s Wi-Fi icon first on the menu bar.

If you see the exclamation mark (  ! ) on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar, as you can see in the picture above, it means that there’s a network issue. Click on the Wi-Fi icon and you will probably see the following drop down menu.

How to Fix Common Connection Wi-Fi Issue: Self-assigned IP on MacBook

Many things can cause the no internet connection issue, one of which is the self-assigned IP issue . If you are using Mac OS X 10.5 or later and facing this issue, try the following.

Check your Network Preferences

To start, go to the Apple menu >  System preferences > Network.

In this part, you have to ensure that Location (1) is on the Automatic option, as you see in the picture below, then click Advanced (2).

After you click Advanced (2), a new window will appear, as shown in the picture below. Click on the TCP/IP tab to view this window.

You should see two things: Configure IPv4 (1) and Router (2). If Configure IPv4 has been set to Using DHCP and the Router field is empty, then try the following steps to resolve the issue.

Reset Network Configuration 

• Click on the Finder Icon, then in the Menu Bar Click Go > Go to Folder

• After you click Go to Folder, type: /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/

Note: This will reset all your network configurations. Feel free to proceed if you have no problem losing your network configuration. 

• Delete the files highlighted in the picture below. You will be asked for your admin password.

• Restart your MacBook . After you log in, try to connect to the same Wi-Fi. Check and make sure that Router IP fills the Router in the Advanced window.

Renew DHCP Lease 

Here's what you need to do:

• From the menu bar, click on the Apple logo
• Next, head over to System Preferences 
• Go to Network Settings 
• Choose your Wi-Fi or Ethernet 
• Select Advanced and go to the TCP/IP tab
• Find the iPv4 Address line, and click on Renew DHCP lease right next to it
• Finally, click OK. 

Create a brand new network location 

If the previous suggestions didn't make any changes, try the following: 

• Click on the drop-down menu right next to Location 
• Next, click on Edit Locations
• Click on "+"
• Enter the name of the location 
• Click Done. 
• Next, select your Ethernet or Wi-Fi
• Click Advanced and then choose the TCP/IP tab

Reset the firewall 

Still nothing? It's time to reset the firewall. Here's how:

• Open Finder 
• Click Go > Go to Folder
• When the pop-up window shows up, enter the following: /Macintosh HD/Library/Preferences/
• Find the file: com.apple.alf.plist 
• Delete that file
• Restart your Mac. 

Set the service order 

Follow the steps below:

• Click on the Apple logo and then head over to System Preferences
• Go to Network Settings
• Find the gear button at the bottom and click on it
• Click on the option Set the service order 
• Place the services at the top of the list by dragging them there. 

Changing DNS servers 

Changing DNS servers helped many users to get rid of the problem. Give it a try:

• Select Advanced
• Click on the DNS tab
• Next, click on "+"
• Add the following numbers:

If you have tried all these suggestions but are still facing the same issue, please contact Apple Support. 

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If your Mac isn't connecting to the internet over Wi-Fi

If your Mac is connected to a Wi-Fi network but can't get online to connect to websites, email, and all other internet services, try these solutions.

To connect to the internet over Wi-Fi:

After connecting to a Wi-Fi network, your network must then allow your Mac to connect to the internet. If websites, email, and all other internet services remain unavailable after connecting to Wi-Fi, the following solutions might help.

Restart your Mac

Restarting might help because your Mac then automatically renews the internet address it was assigned when joining the Wi-Fi network. Or you can renew the IP address manually . This is known as renewing the DHCP lease. If the lease expired and the address is already in use by another device, your Mac is assigned a new address.

Check date and time and update macOS

Make sure that the date and time are set correctly on your Mac.

If you can connect to the internet from a different Wi-Fi network, connect to that network and then update macOS on your Mac .

Check VPN or other security software

If you installed VPN or other software that monitors or interacts with your network connections, that software could be affecting access to the internet. Learn about network issues related to VPN and other software .

Use the built-in diagnostic tools

Update the Wi-Fi router

If you manage the network's Wi-Fi router, install the latest firmware updates for the router, as recommended by its manufacturer. It might also help to simply restart the router and use Apple's recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points .

Try a different network or contact your ISP

If you can access the internet when connected to a different network, or you're not sure, check with your internet provider or network administrator to make sure that your network is working properly and there isn't an internet service outage.

* The Wi-Fi Recommendations feature isn't available for personal hotspots or networks that use certain enterprise security protocols, such as WPA Enterprise or WPA2 Enterprise.

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iMac connected via Ethernet occasionally getting self-Assigned IP

So I have searched far and wide and have not found a solution. I have tried most of what people have posted here (some over 5 years old) to no avail.

The problem: I use my computer connected via Ethernet all the time and it works fine. Then I will lose internet and I will go to the Network preference and renew the DHCP lease on Ethernet and then it will appear as a Self-Assigned IP with a yellow dot. My wifi never stops working and I can continue to use the internet using wifi. Eventually Ethernet will come back on its own (back to a green dot). I have only managed to get it to come back sooner by rebooting my cable modem. Note that I use an Ethernet cable that has been embedded in my wall to the closet which has my cable modem, router, and switch with other Ethernet cables to the other rooms of the apartment. Here is a list of what I have tried:

• Using a different patch cable from my switch to the female Ethernet cable leading to the room with the iMac.
• Unplugging the Ethernet cable from the back of the iMac, from the patch panel, from the switch, from the router.
• Turning the switch on and off.
• Rebooting my router
• Power cycling the router
• Deleting network preferences in /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration
• Deleting the firewall settings
• Deleting the Ethernet option and recreating it
• Rebooting the iMac

I did not try using a different Ethernet cable from the switch to the iMac because ultimately I have no problem getting fast connectivity via that cable, its not like I cannot get Ethernet to work, the issue is it going out and then coming back and having to restart the cable modem (and at times the mac too) to get back on ethernet. I am on an iMac 19,1 running OS X Catalina (10.15.7) with plenty of RAM.

So frustrating that physical connection has these issues. Any idea what could cause this?

Any idea what could cause this?

Fundamentally, it is an intermittent problem with the communications over ethernet between your computer and your router.

In most domestic home networks your router provides the DHCP service by which your computer is assigned an IP-address. If your computer cannot get an answer to it's DHCP request at startup, or after an ipconfig renew, the computer will use a self-assigned IP-address and will then normally not be able to route packets correctly to other networks.

So either your router is unreliable and occasionally unresponsive or you have a cabling problem.

It seems you lose Internet access suddenly at times other than system startup, in my experience this is usually a problem with your ISP connection and router. Some router/ISP combinations have fewer outages or recover more quickly. However it could also be caused by bad cabling, especially any that are accessible or subject to heat cycling, movement, etc.

In your case I would at least try replacing the ethernet cables one by one. Since they are cheap. Before doing so I would look at the Ethernet interface statistics and make a careful note of the numbers of low-level errors that it is seeing over a period of a few hours. You can then do a before and after comparison.

• I did a lot more experimentation the night I posted this (man, what a pain). The only time it worked even with restarts of everything was when I connected the Mac to the cable modem. I will try replacing the cables I can access (the one to the room is in the wall). I too am wondering whether there is a DHCP conflict between the ISP and my Netgear router. Both the cable modem and the router act as DHCP servers and I am wondering if that causes a conflict. Going to try to set static IPs. How would you see those ethernet interface stats, is there a Mac console log that would show them? –  Cheefachi Oct 12, 2020 at 22:29
• @Cheefachi: I don't have a Mac but I think the command is netstat -ib or I think you can get the same info using the Network Utility app , located in the /System/Library/CoreServices/Applications folder. It should show the number of TX-errors and RX-errors since the computer was rebooted. You should see many millions of packets sent/received and zero errors. –  RedGrittyBrick Oct 12, 2020 at 22:47
• So now after a month my setup that bypasses the switch is working. Essentially it is cable modem -> wifi router -> ethernet -> mac circumventing the switch. This is actually very surprising to me as I discovered my cable modem has a DHCP server (that I cannot turn off) but the switch from what I can tell does not and I was sure it was a DHCP IP address conflict. It may still be the issue but with 0 problems since I moved to that I'll stick with this setup until I have the time to debug it some more and everyone else in the household uses Wifi so its not urgent. Thanks for the help everyone! –  Cheefachi Nov 11, 2020 at 16:59

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"Ethernet has a self-assigned IP Address & will not be able to connect to the Internet"

I just installed a new modem ( Arris Surfboard T 25) and using my Airport Extreme Router I get Internet. But if I try to connect directly to the Modem using my ethernet cable I receive a message in my Network Pane stating "Connected" but" Ethernet has a self-assigned IP Address and will not be able to connect to the internet"

I have tried adding a "New Location" in place of "Automatic"but status remains the same.

What should I do?

Mark, MacBook Pro 2013 MacOS Mojave 10.14.6

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.14

Posted on Aug 27, 2020 11:21 AM

I've asked you to power off the modem for a time because cable modems behave in a particular way. They only "remember" the device that they have been previously connected to, so when you connect your Mac directly to the modem, the modem is still looking for the AirPort Extreme. It can't find it, because it only knows to look for the AirPort Extreme.

So, you have to reset the modem so that it will "forget" your AirPort Extreme and "associate" with your Mac to set up a new connection. The extended power down resets the modem and gives the equipment back at the cable company time to reset as well and issue a new fresh connection.

That is why it is very likely that you will have to go through the modem power down process again when you want to connect the AirPort Extreme back to the modem.

Posted on Aug 27, 2020 5:06 PM

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Aug 27, 2020 11:49 AM in response to MarkSpotKick

If your AirPort Extreme is working correctly, not sure why you want to connect your Mac directly to the modem.

Did you remember to power off the modem, leave it off for 10-15 minutes, then power it back up......before......you attempt to connect your Mac directly to the modem? Even better.....restart your Mac again before you connect it to the modem.

Here's the whole deal.......

Power off the modem completely by pulling the power cable from the back of the device or from the AC wall socket, whichever is easier

Leave the modem off for 10-15 minutes. Longer will not hurt and in some cases will be necessary depending on your Internet Service Provider.

After the 10-15 minutes of power down, power up the modem and let it run for a few minutes by itself

Restart your Mac

Connect your Mac to the modem using the Ethernet connection.

When you reconnect the AirPort Extreme to the modem again, you will have to go through the same process as above, just substitute the AirPort Extreme for your Mac.

Aug 27, 2020 1:19 PM in response to MarkSpotKick

this is an old Extreme router which I have just discovered is only giving me 40% of my internet speed, so I was verifying the speed.

Old or new, the AirPort Extreme will top out at about 300-325 Mbps as far as its Internet connection speed.

The T 25 modem has 2 ethernet ports so I think I won't need to disconnect the router when powering off for the first time.

I haven't tested that particular modem, but you may still need to go through the power down and up process whenever you change the device that is connected directly to the modem.

As far as a "new" AirPort Extreme, Apple discontinued the Extreme in AprIl 2018 and sold off the remaining inventory at that time. It's possible that an AirPort Extreme could be "new", but it has been sitting on a shelf somewhere for well over 2 years.

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Aug 27, 2020 12:12 PM in response to Bob Timmons

Thanks, I will try this, and thank you for you very prompt response.

As you say why bother if my router /network works properly. Answer is that this is an old Extreme router which I have just discovered is only giving me 40% of my internet speed, so I was verifying the speed.

So, I am buying a new router - another Airport Extreme, this is the 6th Generation ( apparently "New" not "refurbished" according to the Amazon Vendor) and I just wanted that contingency of directly accessing the Internet using an ethernet cable, if something should go awry on the router front.

Aug 27, 2020 1:43 PM in response to Bob Timmons

I'll be happy with 300 Mbps as that is the speed I have purchased.

And,Yes, thank your the heads up.... I was aware that Apple got out of the router business, so I agree "new" isn't exactly new. However my "old" Extreme router is over 12 years old, and it still delivers 95-100 Mbps. I have never had problems with it and but for it aging gracefully , ( to a slower speed) I wouldn't change. But if a change is made i decided to try my luck with the "new" Extreme.

I will let you know tomorrow if your suggestion fixes my particular problem, and as you say it's really not a problem when the Modem/ Router/LAN all work just fine.

Aug 27, 2020 5:06 PM in response to MarkSpotKick

Aug 28, 2020 1:35 PM in response to Bob Timmons

Thank you, for your precise instructions. you have resolved my small problem.

Indeed, you have been right all along. I did power down the modem and connected with my laptop via ethernet cable. And just as you pointed out I had to repeat the same process to reconnect to the Airport Extreme, by powering down the modem a second time.

Any I now understand the issue, which is new and strange because my old modem, likewise a 12 year old Arris 3.0 DOLCIS allowed me to jump from router to laptop and back again without interruption.

That is why I posted my concern. Looks like the new modems stick to the rule you highlight -only one connection remembered.

Aug 28, 2020 2:09 PM in response to MarkSpotKick

Nice work. You might be able to get away with a shorter power down period for the modem, it all depends on your Internet Service Provider and how fast their equipment will reset and issue a new fresh connection.

A really good provider will reset the modem quite quickly, maybe as quick as a few seconds. A not so good provider will sometimes take 30 minutes or more before the modem will reset.

I suggested the 10-15 minute power down since that will cover just about all but the slowest providers. If you have the time, you can find out how quickly your provider will reset things. It might be as quick as power off the modem, count to ten, and power up again.

Your new AirPort Extreme should be able to handle a 300-325 Mbps Internet connection pretty well, but it won't go much higher. If you see 100 Mbps, that would usually indicate a bad Ethernet cable. A bad cable will still allow a connection, but limit speeds to 100 Mbps.

Would be interested to see how the new Extreme is doing when/if you have a chance to post back.

Aug 28, 2020 4:25 PM in response to Bob Timmons

OK will do.

I get my new Airport Extreme, next week ... sometime between 1st & 4th Sept.

I will remember to let you know what my final out come is...... when it comes to the ethernet cable connection to my new router.

The current cable is buried in the wall through 2 floors, but it is a 5e cable, so should be adequate.

My Service provider is of course Comcast, since I live in Philadelphia PA, and their power down/ reset is 10 seconds. I used a 30 second break to make sure during the recent powering down you suggested I go through, and it worked.

So, bye for now, and My next post to you will be when I have the new Extreme in place and the outcome in internet speed.

Aug 30, 2020 12:13 PM in response to Bob Timmons

So here's my news

My new Airport Extreme arrived this morning, and I and our LAN are happily connected in place of the old retired Extreme.

The new one, is exactly as advertised - NEW; still in it's original Apple packaging and box.....recognizing it was manufactured in 2017 or 2018

I can confirm the the top speed we get is 350 Mbps - which is the top Xfinity Comcast delivered speed. My wife's MacBook Pro is a 2016 model which has wireless 802.11ac and she get's this speed anywhere. - ( my Airport Utility advises Data Transfer up to 750 Mbps available to her machine)

I have the old 2013 MBP and I have only 802.11b/g/n, so my max. Data transfer available is 300 Mbps, and my actual connection speed tops out at 220 Mbps, where I normally use it. Nearer to it, in our bedroom annex where the Extreme is located, I get 250 - 290 Mbps. Also if I connect with an ethernet cable to one of the Router LAN ports I also get 350 Mbps. So the limitation is my machine. All of this also applies to our phones and iPad's depending on age and whether their connection is 802.11ac or not.

So very pleased with the end result.

And once again, thank you for talking me through the finer points of today's modem connectivity issues

Aug 30, 2020 12:26 PM in response to MarkSpotKick

Thanks for posting back.

Good news! Looks like the new AirPort Extreme has done the trick! Excellent performance.

Glad that we could help on the modem checks.

If you have not already done so, you might want to make sure that the new AirPort has the latest firmware installed. That would be 7.9.1, which became available about a year after Apple stopped producing the AirPorts, so a new factory sealed unit would be running an earlier version of firmware.

Aug 30, 2020 12:58 PM in response to Bob Timmons

Yes the Airport Utility/Extreme prompted me during set up, and I confirm I now have the 7.9.1 Firmware installed

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Multiple macs self-assigned IP on ethernet (wifi okay though)

I have a small CAT-6 ethernet network featuring a Cisco 18-port switch and an Asus router acting as DHCP server.

Various devices connected to the switch (e.g. printer, NAS) connect to the DHCP server successfully to receive addresses in the 192.168.1.* range. My Macbook Pro and Mac mini also connect over wifi to the router to receive DHCP addresses in the same range.

The Macbook and the Mac Mini (both latest Mavericks) fail to connect via the switch when using ethernet and end up with self-assigned 169. . .* addresses. With the Macbook Pro I've tried this with three different USB to ethernet dongles, including an Apple model. Setting the ethernet parameters manually doesn't seem to help access the switch either.

This makes me think there's some configuration with ethernet under Mavericks that doesn't match my setup with the 192.168.1.* range? I'm assuming the Cisco switch is not the problem as other devices seem to connect through it fine.

Can someone give me a hint as how to work out what's going on? Does Mavericks always try and look for DHCP servers in the 10.0.0.* range instead?

• If you connect a PC to the same cable the MacBook or Mac Mini is plugged in now, does it receive an IP via DHCP? –  Kevin Grabher Jun 25, 2014 at 8:14
• I don't have a PC handy but I have used the same cables to connect a Synology NAS (two LAN ports) and both receive IP's via DHCP. I'm starting to think there must be something going on with the way Apple ethernet drivers and the Cisco switch ports negotiate their ethernet speeds and setup. If that process failed that would explain the self-assigned IP addresses? –  stu002 Jun 26, 2014 at 3:01
• The last post on hear seems to suggest it's a known cisco bug: discussions.apple.com/thread/1285483?start=45&tstart=0 ; is there a software update for your cisco device(s) by any chance? –  Kevin Grabher Jun 27, 2014 at 7:59
• Yes--I've had some success with an AX88179 USB ethernet by setting the switch ports to manual and ditto for the Mac ethernet hardware settings. The connection is lost for a while on wake from sleep though. Still trying to get the Mac mini ethernet to connect at all at various manually set speeds. I believe the Cisco switch is at the last patch level but will double check. Every other device I've connected to the switch has worked as expected though. –  stu002 Jun 27, 2014 at 9:02

2 Answers 2

I'll answer and accept this question as I'm certain now that the problem is the interaction between modern Macs and my Cisco switch. I can kind of fix the problem by:

Setting the Mac ethernet "hardware" tab to manual 1000T/full duplex

Setting corresponding switch ports to 1000T/full duplex

Turning off the switch green ethernet facility

Making sure switch is at the latest firmware release

This seems to work well until the Mac sleeps, then the connection is lost again. I'm still trying to work out how to work around that issue.

• Open a Terminal window
• type cd /Library/Preferences/System\ Configuration
• type open .
• Find the NetworkInterfaces.plist
• Restart your computer
• Go to Network and it will automatically find your wired connection

• Thanks for adding that procedure--it will be useful into the future I can see. FWIW: I changed to an HP switch and all these problems went away. –  stu002 Jan 22, 2016 at 0:35

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