Fix DHCP Not Enabled for WiFi on Windows 10/11

Symptoms

• WiFi icon shows limited or no connectivity.
• Error message: 'DHCP is not enabled for WiFi' in Network Troubleshooter results.
• IP address shows as 169.254.x.x (APIPA) instead of a valid DHCP-assigned IP.
• Unable to browse the internet despite connecting to the WiFi network.
• Other devices on the same network work fine.

Root Causes

• IPv4 properties manually set to static IP instead of automatic (DHCP).
• DHCP Client service is stopped or disabled.
• Corrupted network adapter drivers.
• Registry key for DHCP is misconfigured.
• Third-party firewall or VPN software interfering with DHCP.

Step-by-Step Fix

Method 1: Enable DHCP via Network Settings

1. Press Win + R, type ncpa.cpl, press Enter.
2. Right-click your WiFi adapter, 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 PC.

Method 2: Enable DHCP via Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type netsh interface ip set address name="WiFi" source=dhcp and press Enter.
3. Type netsh interface ip set dns name="WiFi" source=dhcp and press Enter.
4. Close CMD and restart your PC.

Method 3: Restart DHCP Client Service

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter.
2. Find DHCP Client, right-click, select Restart.
3. Ensure Startup Type is Automatic. If not, right-click > Properties > set to Automatic.
4. Restart your PC.

Method 4: Registry Fix

Warning: Backup registry before editing.

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, press Enter.
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip\Parameters\Interfaces\{Your WiFi Adapter GUID}.
3. Find EnableDHCP, set value to 1. If missing, create DWORD (32-bit) named EnableDHCP with value 1.
4. Close Registry, restart PC.

Alternative Fixes

• Update WiFi drivers: Download latest from manufacturer's website or use Device Manager.
• Run Network Troubleshooter: Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Network Adapter.
• Disable IPv6: Uncheck IPv6 in adapter properties (may help if DHCPv6 is misconfigured).
• Reset Winsock: Run netsh winsock reset in CMD as Admin, then restart.
• Disable third-party firewall/VPN temporarily to test.

Prevention

• Always use automatic IP/DNS unless you have a specific static IP requirement.
• Keep Windows and network drivers updated.
• Avoid using registry cleaners that may modify DHCP-related keys.
• If you use a VPN, ensure it doesn't change adapter settings permanently.
• Create a System Restore point before making network changes.

After applying these steps, your WiFi should obtain an IP address from the router's DHCP server. If the issue persists, check your router's DHCP settings or contact your ISP.