How to Find an IP Address From a Chat Window

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a numbered label that is assigned to all devices that can connect to a computer's network using an IP for communication with the network. An IP can be used to find out the host identification of the computer that is being communicated with. If you get a strange person trying to chat with you over an instant messenger client you can trace their IP address with minimal effort.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Find out the port number of your instant messenger client (see Resources).
2. Send an IM to the person whose IP you want to know.
3. Connect with them directly by sending them a picture through "Photoshare." Most instant messenger clients have this feature, but it may be called something different. The person will have to accept this invitation in order for you to trace their IP address.
4. Click the "Start" menu on the bottom left-hand side of your computer screen and then select "Run." Type "cmd" into the command prompt and hit the "Enter" key on your keyboard. This will open an MS-DOS window.
5. Type in "netstat-an" on your command prompt window and then hit the "Enter" key.
6. Look for the port number that your IM client is on. Next to the port will be the IP address of the person with whom you are chatting.