How to Enable DHCP on a Network Adapter in Windows 10

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses, subnet masks, and other network settings to devices connected to your network. If DHCP is disabled on your network adapter, you might encounter issues connecting to the internet. Here’s a step-by-step guide to enabling DHCP on your network adapter in Windows 10.

Step 1: Open the "Network and Sharing Center"

  1. Press Win + X and select Control Panel from the menu.
  2. In the Control Panel window, go to Network and Internet, and then click on Network and Sharing Center.

Step 2: Go to Network Adapter Settings

  1. In the left sidebar, select Change adapter settings.
  2. Find the network adapter you want to configure, then right-click on it.
  3. Select Properties from the context menu.

Step 3: Set IP and DNS Servers to Automatic

  1. In the adapter’s properties window, choose Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click on Properties.
  2. Ensure that Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically are selected.
  3. Click OK to save your settings.

Step 4: Restart Your Network Connection

  1. After making the changes, try disabling and re-enabling your network adapter.
  2. If the network doesn’t reconnect automatically, restart your computer.

Checking DHCP Status

To verify that DHCP is enabled, open the Command Prompt and type:

ipconfig /all

Under the section related to your network adapter, you should see Yes next to DHCP Enabled if it’s successfully turned on.