Fix DHCP Not Enabled for WiFi in Windows

Symptoms

• WiFi shows 'Connected, no internet' or 'Limited connectivity'
• IP address starts with 169.254.x.x (APIPA)
• Unable to browse websites or access network resources
• Network icon shows yellow exclamation mark
• ipconfig output shows 'Autoconfiguration IPv4 Address' instead of a valid IP

Root Causes

• DHCP client service is disabled or not running
• WiFi adapter is configured with a static IP address
• Corrupted network adapter settings
• Outdated or faulty WiFi drivers
• Third-party firewall or VPN interfering with DHCP

Step-by-Step Fixes

1. Enable DHCP via Network Adapter Properties

1. Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, press Enter.
2. Right-click your WiFi adapter (e.g., 'Wi-Fi' or 'Wireless Network Connection'), select Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), click Properties.
4. Select Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
5. Click OK, then Close. Restart your WiFi connection (disable/enable adapter).

2. Reset DHCP via Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search 'cmd', right-click, 'Run as administrator').
2. Run these commands one by one:

   ipconfig /release
   ipconfig /renew
   ipconfig /flushdns

3. Wait for renewal (may take a few seconds). Check IP with ipconfig.

3. Restart DHCP Client Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, press Enter.
2. Find DHCP Client in the list. Double-click it.
3. Set Startup type to Automatic, click Start (if stopped).
4. Click Apply, OK. Restart your PC if needed.

4. Reset Network Stack

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run:

   netsh int ip reset
   netsh winsock reset

3. Restart your computer.

5. Update WiFi Driver

1. Press Windows + X, select Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters, right-click your WiFi adapter, select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Follow prompts.
4. If no update found, visit your laptop/PC manufacturer's website for the latest driver.

Alternative Fixes

• Run Network Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network troubleshooter.
• Disable IPv6: In adapter properties, uncheck 'Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)'.
• Disable third-party firewall/antivirus: Temporarily disable to check interference.
• Use System Restore: Roll back to a point when WiFi worked.
• Reset Network Settings: Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset.

Prevention

• Always keep your WiFi driver updated.
• Avoid manually setting static IP unless necessary for your network.
• Run periodic network resets if you frequently change networks.
• Ensure DHCP Client service is set to Automatic and running.
• Use reliable security software that doesn't interfere with network settings.

By following these steps, you should be able to enable DHCP for your WiFi adapter and restore normal internet connectivity in Windows.