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How to find IP conflicts in Linux

Here’s everything you need to know.

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In the world of Linux, what do you think happens when two hosts have the same IP (internet protocol) address? That is right! You guessed it – an IP conflict occurs. This means that packets from one host are being sent to another and vice versa.

This can lead to a variety of problems for both hosts involved in this situation. Hosts may encounter continuous connection and disconnection issues as a result of this problem, so it is important to identify what caused the conflict and fix it as quickly as feasible.

What is an IP address?

What IP addresses are in general? An IP address is a unique number assigned to each device (such as a PC, smartphone, routing device, switch/modem, etc.) on a network. This code allows devices to interact smoothly over the network, which aids in the proper flow of information. An IP address is a string of 32 digits separated by periods that must be different inside its network to work.

An IP address may be thought of as a device’s ZIP code inside a network. An IP (internet protocol) address aids in the transmission and reception of data quickly and correctly among your network’s devices. However, if there are many IP addresses in use, obtaining the correct data(information) to the correct locations might be difficult.

IP Conflicts In Linux

All of you are aware of what Internet protocol addresses are, aren’t you? They’re assigned to all the devices that are on a network so that they may be identified. They change frequently due to DHCP servers. There are now two distinct types of IP addresses. The ones that are dynamic and change constantly (a couple of times a day), & the ones that remain unchanged, are static, as if they don’t alter.

That might cause difficulties on occasion. When a dynamic (internet protocol) IP is allocated and another device already exists with exactly the same static IP (internet protocol) address. It’s also possible when there are several DHCP servers on the network, each with its own unique subnetwork. If you’re having problems with IP conflict, try using arp tool scan to see if there are any.

The address-resolution tool is used to obtain the addresses on your local network by sending ARP data packets. If several MAC addresses are listed as declaring the same IP(internet protocol) address, there is a problem.

For installing ARP on your Linux machine type the command below in the terminal:

$ sudo yum install arp-scan

Type the below-mentioned command for detecting IP conflicts.

$ sudo arp-scan –I eth0 -l

The output as an example:

193.166.1.20 00:1c:a8:64:a3:5c Bay Group. 

193.166.1.30 00:2e:7f:44:cb:52 Sony Corp.

193.166.1.39 00:1c:a8:64:a3:5c HP

193.166.1.39 00:2e:7f:44:cb:52 Apple (DUP: 2) 

193.166.1.40 00:1c:a8:64:a3:5c (not identified)

19.168.1.39 is repeating so it’s an IP conflict.

Wrapping Up

If you’ve detected an IP(internet protocol) conflict in the network, you’ll need to change the IP settings/configurations of the device that is “squatting.” Preferably, someone on your team has direct access to the equipment so that the correct IP settings can be configured. If you don’t have access to the uncertain host, there are few alternatives available to you.

Another choice is to disconnect the host from the network by killing the switch port that it’s linked to. Keep in mind that you perform this when no one is on the network. So, as not to cause a disruption. Also, double-check to see whether any of your changes will have a detrimental effect on applications (desktop software) or other network services.

Please don’t turn off the trunk port under all circumstances. In any case, it’s highly advised that you consult with your co-workers and take action as needed.

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