Fix DHCP Not Enabled for WiFi on Windows

Symptoms

• WiFi shows 'No internet access' or 'Limited connectivity'
• IP address shows as 169.254.x.x (APIPA) in ipconfig
• Cannot browse websites or use network services
• Network icon shows yellow exclamation mark
• DHCP enabled setting is grayed out or set to 'Disabled' in adapter properties

Root Causes

• DHCP client service is stopped or disabled
• Network adapter is set to static IP instead of automatic
• Corrupted network adapter drivers
• Third-party firewall or security software blocking DHCP
• Windows update or misconfiguration changed DHCP settings

Step-by-Step Fix

Method 1: Enable DHCP via Network Adapter Properties

1. Press Win + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Right-click your WiFi adapter and select Properties.
3. Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
4. Select Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically.
5. Click OK and restart your PC.

Method 2: Restart DHCP Client Service

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find DHCP Client in the list.
3. Right-click and select Restart (or Start if stopped).
4. Set Startup type to Automatic.
5. Click Apply and OK.

Method 3: Reset Network Settings via Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (Win + X, then select Command Prompt Admin).
2. Run the following commands one by one:

   netsh int ip reset
   netsh winsock reset
   ipconfig /release
   ipconfig /renew
   ipconfig /flushdns

3. Restart your computer.

Method 4: Reinstall Network Adapter Driver

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters.
3. Right-click your WiFi adapter and select Uninstall device (check 'Delete driver software' if prompted).
4. Restart your PC – Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Alternative Fixes

• Run the built-in Windows Network Troubleshooter: Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Network Adapter.
• Disable IPv6 if not needed: In adapter properties, uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).
• Check if your router's DHCP server is enabled – log into router admin and verify.
• Temporarily disable third-party antivirus or firewall to rule out interference.

Prevention

• Always set network adapter to 'Obtain IP automatically' unless you need static IP.
• Keep Windows and network drivers updated.
• Create a system restore point before making network changes.
• Use reliable security software that doesn't block DHCP.
• Regularly restart your router and modem to avoid DHCP lease issues.

By following these steps, you should be able to re-enable DHCP for WiFi on Windows and restore normal internet connectivity. If problems persist, consider resetting your router or contacting your ISP.