To fix an error where your computer has an invalid IP address that starts with 169, you need to make it so that the networking device in your computer is able to communicate with your network hardware.

Depending on the exact reason that you’re experiencing this error, you may be able to accomplish this by resetting your network hardware, telling the networking device in your computer to request a new IP address, or even changing some settings in your router.

Here are the most common fixes, which are explained in greater detail below:

Power cycle your network hardware: Turn off and unplug your modem and router, and then plug them back in. In some cases, this will allow your computer to obtain a normal IP address again.

Use the Windows networking troubleshooter: This is an automated process that takes care of most networking problems, including ones that prevent your computer from obtaining a valid IP address.

Request a new IP address using the command prompt: This is a little more complicated because you need to open a command prompt and enter a series of commands. In most cases, this will allow your computer to obtain a valid IP address.

Check your router settings: If your computer still doesn’t receive a valid IP address, check your router settings and make sure DHCP is actually turned on.

Disable and re-enable your networking device: In cases where there is a problem with the driver for your networking device, disabling the device or uninstalling the driver will get things working again.