How to check IP routing table in Windows

In Windows environments, a routing table defines paths for network traffic by mapping destination networks to specific interfaces and gateways. It contains entries that dictate how outbound data packets traverse various subnets and reach their destinations. Analyzing this information helps identify misconfigurations, improve connectivity, and ensure stable communication across diverse network segments.

Observing the routing table supports conflict resolution, route optimization, and adherence to intended policies. Tools like the route command provide real-time visibility into static and dynamic entries, revealing how the operating system decides where to forward traffic under different conditions.

Accurate routing details enable administrators and power users to troubleshoot connectivity issues, confirm proper configurations, and detect anomalies. Inspecting these routes makes it possible to validate system behavior, maintain efficient data flow, and uphold secure networking practices.

1. Launch the Command Prompt from the Start menu.
2. Display all current routes.

   C:\> route print
   ===========================================================================
   Interface List
     9...00 1F 3C 6C 0B 42 ...... Intel(R) Ethernet Connection
    10...00 15 5D 43 3B 02 ...... Hyper-V Virtual Ethernet Adapter
   ===========================================================================
   IPv4 Route Table
   ===========================================================================
   Active Routes:
   Network Destination  Netmask        Gateway         Interface  Metric
   0.0.0.0             0.0.0.0        192.168.1.1     192.168.1.100  10
   ...

3. Inspect the Active Routes section to identify paths, gateways, and metrics.
4. Filter the output by specifying a destination.

   route print 192.168.0.0

   Use route with caution when adjusting or deleting entries to avoid unintended loss of connectivity.

5. Close the Command Prompt when finished.

This method uses the Get-NetRoute cmdlet to display and manage routes using more modern administrative tools.

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. List all routes in the current configuration.

   PS C:\> Get-NetRoute
   
   ifIndex DestinationPrefix NextHop    RouteMetric ...
   ------  ----------------- -------    ----------- ...
   10      0.0.0.0/0        192.168.1.1 10         ...
   10      192.168.1.0/24   0.0.0.0     10         ...

3. Filter routes by prefix.

   Get-NetRoute -DestinationPrefix 192.168.1.0/24

   PowerShell provides detailed information such as interface indexes and route metrics, which can be useful for advanced troubleshooting.

4. Exit PowerShell after reviewing the results.