A method for configuring an Internet protocol (IP) address of a small cell includes determining whether the small cell has received authorization from a core network of a mobile operator, determining whether the core network has priority over a local network to connect to the small cell, obtaining a local IP address from a dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) function implemented in the small cell or in an access point of the local network of the small cell, and using a core network IP address assigned to the small cell by the core network when the core network has priority over the local network. The small cell determines whether the core network IP address is the same as the local IP address. When the core network IP address is the same as the local IP address, the local IP address of the small cell is changed.