Get a computer name from IP address in a LAN: command line

This article will explain how to find the hostname of a computer, connected in a LAN, using an IP address. Depending on the type of IP address - public or private - there are two different procedures. If you want to know how they work, keep reading.

How to find a hostname via public IP address?

In order to find the hostname of a computer with a public IP address, you have to pass the address to the Domain Name System (DNS) server. Here are the steps to follow:

• Click on the Window Start button.
• Click on “All Programs”.
• Click on “Accessories”.
• Right-click on "Command Prompt".
• Choose "Run as Administrator".
• Type “nbtstat -a <ip_address>”. Note that <ip_address> is the IP address of the computer.

How to find a hostname via private IP address?

Finding the hostname of a computer with a private IP address and no local DNS server means you need to query the host itself by using a Windows utility. Here are the steps to follow:

• Click on the Window Start button.
• Click on “All Programs”.
• Click on “Accessories”.
• A black box opens.
• Type "nslookup -a <ip_address>". Note that <ip_address> is the IP address of the computer.

Note that it is not necessary to know an IP address in order to find other systems if you have a WiFi LAN connection.

We hope that you find these solutions useful and that your question is answered!