Windows Commands / IT Support Guides
Use ping to separate reachability from application failure
When a user reports that the internet is down, a small reachability test helps establish whether the failure affects an address, name resolution or a particular application.
Environment and inputs: Windows 11 · Command Prompt unless PowerShell is specified
Try the diagnostic command
Use the stated shell and platform. Replace sample domains, addresses, services and paths with values from the system you are authorized to support.
ping -n 4 192.0.2.1
ping -n 4 example.comHow to read the result
The first command demonstrates testing an address; the second adds a DNS dependency. Replies show ICMP reachability and round-trip time, but they do not demonstrate that HTTPS or another service is available.
What to do next
Replace the example address with the real gateway. If the gateway answers, test a known permitted destination and then the application port. Record packet loss and the test time.
Before you make a change
192.0.2.1 is a documentation address. ICMP may be blocked, so a timeout alone does not prove the host or network is down.