IPHelper

IPHelper is a set of Windows API functions and utilities designed to assist with network configuration, troubleshooting, and diagnostics. Originally developed by Microsoft, the IPHelper API provides programs with access to network interface information, IP address configuration, and other network-related data.

The primary utility of IPHelper is in retrieving detailed network interface information, including IP addresses, subnet masks, gateway addresses, and routing tables. It supports operations necessary for network diagnostics, such as examining network interface statuses, routing configuration, and network statistics. Developers and network administrators often use these APIs to create tools for network management or to analyze network performance.

One of the most widely used components based on IPHelper is the "ipconfig" command-line utility, which displays all current TCP/IP network configuration values and refreshes DHCP and DNS settings. Additionally, the "netsh" command utilizes IPHelper functions to configure network interfaces and troubleshoot connectivity issues.

The IPHelper API exposes several functions, such as GetAdaptersAddresses, GetIpStatistics, and GetNumberOfInterfaces, among others. These functions return data structures that contain detailed network interface and configuration information, enabling advanced scripting and automation tasks.

Since Windows Vista, IPHelper has been included as part of the Windows Driver Kit (WDK) and Windows SDK, ensuring compatibility across modern Windows versions. Its role is crucial in network management, security, and troubleshooting within Windows environments, providing essential insights into system network configurations.

Overall, IPHelper serves as a foundational component for network diagnostics and configuration management in Windows operating systems, facilitating both user-level utilities and developer tools.