Using the Ping utility in Microsoft Windows

The Ping utility lets you test the connection between two computers. It sends small Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) packets to a target computer, and then waits for replies. The replies tell you if a connection exists between the computers, and the speed of the connection.

To use the ping utility:

1. On your desktop, click Start > Run to open the Run window.

2. On the Open field, type cmd and then click OK. The Windows command prompt appears.

3. Type the following: ping <hostname or IP address>

4. Press the Enter key.