IP on iPhone 4S IP is 169.254.217.184 not 168.192.1.1 my network why?

I've connected wifi on iPhone 4S on wireless home network & didn't mind no key for security used. NETGEAR WGR614 old WL ROUTER. GOT NEWER ROUTER & haven't installed, NETGEAR N900 WL dual band gigabit R4500. Started getting info on settings MacBook.pro, ipad2 retina, iPhone 4S.

Phone tech helped.me get ipad to accept displayed NAME security window popped up for key. I'm forgetting a step as my iPhone does usual display network name, did simple step to get ipad to request security key. But IP shows 169.254.77.239, default NETGEAR 168.192.1.1 (wl router) can't even put in. Turned cellular data/voice off & then on again, no diff! Usual DHCP, HTTP Proxy off, tried static, boot, & HTTP PROXY to manual--anything to enter my ip router, subnet, DNS, IP assigned varies so picked one last digit to diff devices.

It worked showing wifi signal great for last 6 mo.! Is Sprint converting to its range of ip addresses? But with cell data voice off still had IP 254........, not 168. Did turn off to clear data when turned cell services off.

I'm so newbie when dealing with all 3 devices, changed all last summer to Mac knowing nothing, no iPod even.

Sorry so long, frustrated, feel I'm never gonna get these tips & tricks or basics down. Need faster router. Anybody have comments? I'm baffled & I'm one who is techie, electronics, appliances, but changing router( cable modem surfboard.

Suggestions, comments on modem I'm planning on changing to, I've got DTV linked to current wl router for on-demand, used to setup wireless but wired into router now. I'm open & please no condescending comments, I used DOS thru Wwindows XP PROF & ver 7. 25 years of diff terminology, I'm noticiing I get grooving & WHAM! Little something throws me into freak out state. Thx :)