How to: Enable DHCP in Windows

So, what is DHCP? DCHP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. In simple terms, it is a networking service that lets your computer acquire an IP (Internet Protocol) address and some other configuration settings automatically when integrating and connecting with a new computer network. In order DHCP to work properly, your computer must have a fully working DHCP client correctly installed and enabled. Also, you have to be connecting to a network that is already setup to provide configuration data via DHCP (this is usually not a problem since almost all home networks already are). Let’s check out how to enable DHCP

If you’re using a Windows operating system, it already comes with an integrated DHCP client that can be easily enabled by users with administrator privileges. With that being said, make sure you are already logged into a Windows account that has administrative privileges before you begin the following steps.

1. First, as mentioned above you’ll need to log into your operating system (in this case Windows) with an account that has administrative privileges on your computer. Next, click on the Start Menu (located in the bottom left corner of the Desktop) and then access your computer’s Control Panel.
2. Next, you’ll need to click on “Network and Internet Connections” (if you are using the new “Category View” in Control Panel), and then click where it says “Network Connections” underneath where it says “or pick a Control Panel icon.”
   Note: If you are using the “Classic View“, then you’ll need to double click on “Network Connections“.
3. Now take a look at the list of network connections and decide which adapter you would like to enable the DHCP on. If you are using a wireless connection to access the Internet, then look for the adapter entitled “Wireless Network Connection.” If your computer is directly connected to a router, DSL modem, cable modem, or another networking device of some sort, then you’ll need to find the connection entitled “Local Area Connection.”
4. Now that you’ve found the correct adapter, right-click on the adapter name and then click “Properties.” Then, in the window that appears, find the section entitled “This connection uses the following items.” Keep scrolling down until you see where it says “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)” and double click on “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)“.
5. Finally, click on the radio buttons entitled “Obtain an IP address automatically” and then “Obtain DNS server address automatically” to enable your computer’s DHCP. If you do not see any of these radio buttons, then make sure you are in the "General" tab. Click “OK” to close the window, and then click the “OK” button again to close out the "adapter properties" window.

If you have followed the above steps without success, try restarting your computer and then follow them again one more time to be sure you have done everything correctly. It is very easy to make a simple mistake or become confused if you are not very computer savvy. If you are still having trouble the second time around, try enlisting the help of a technically inclined friend.