Experiencing the "DHCP is not enabled for 'Wi-Fi'" error on your Windows 11 computer can be frustrating, especially when it hinders your internet connectivity. This error indicates that your system isn't obtaining an IP address from the DHCP server, which is essential for network communication.

You might also see similar messages like:

  • DHCP is not enabled for "Wireless Network Connection"
  • DHCP is not enabled for "Ethernet"
  • DHCP is not enabled for "Local Area Connection"

Regardless of the specific wording, the underlying issue remains the same, and the solutions provided here can help you resolve it.

Why does the 'DHCP is not enabled for WiFi' error occur?

Several factors can cause this error, preventing your computer from communicating with the DHCP server. Common reasons include:

  • Incorrect DHCP Server Configuration: The DHCP server may have misconfigured settings, incorrect IP ranges, or subnet masks.
  • Router or Access Point Issues: The router might have DHCP disabled or configured improperly.
  • IP Address Exhaustion: The DHCP server may have run out of available IP addresses to assign.
  • Firewall or Security Settings: Firewalls might be blocking DHCP traffic.
  • Network Misconfiguration: Incorrect network settings can prevent proper communication with the DHCP server.

Fix the 'DHCP is not enabled for WiFi' error in Windows 11

Below are several methods to resolve the DHCP error on your Windows 11 device. Start with the first solution and work your way down if the issue persists.

Enable DHCP via Network Adapter Settings

Ensuring that your network adapter is set to obtain IP and DNS server addresses automatically can resolve the DHCP error. Here's how to check and enable these settings:

Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Type ncpa.cpl and press Enter.

Step 2: In the Network Connections window, locate your Wi-Fi adapter. Right-click on it and select Properties from the context menu.

Step 3: In the Wi-Fi Properties window, scroll through the list and select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click on Properties.

Step 4: Ensure that both Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS server address automatically are selected. Click OK to save the changes.

Step 5: Restart your computer to apply the changes. After rebooting, check if the internet connection is restored.

Restart DHCP Client Service

The DHCP Client service must be running to obtain IP addresses from the DHCP server. Restarting this service can fix related issues.

Step 1: Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter to open the Services console.

Step 2: Scroll down and find DHCP Client. Right-click on it and select Properties.

Step 3: In the Properties window, set the Startup type to Automatic. Click Apply to save the changes.

Step 4: If the service status is Stopped, click Start. If it's running, click Stop and then Start to restart it.

Step 5: Close the Services window and check your network connection.

Reset Winsock and TCP/IP

Resetting the network stack can resolve issues caused by corrupted network settings. Here's how to reset Winsock and TCP/IP:

Step 1: Click on the Start menu, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /renew
nbtstat -r

Step 3: Restart your computer to complete the reset process. After rebooting, verify if the network issue is resolved.

Update the Network Driver

An outdated or corrupted network driver can cause connectivity problems. Updating the driver can help fix the DHCP error.

Step 1: Press Windows + X and select Device Manager from the menu.

Step 2: Expand the Network adapters section. Right-click on your wireless network adapter and choose Update driver.

Step 3: Select Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search online and install any available updates.

Step 4: Once the update is complete, restart your computer. Check if the DHCP error persists.

Step 5: If Windows doesn't find an update, visit the manufacturer's website to download and install the latest driver manually.

Reinstall the Network Adapter Driver

If updating the driver doesn't work, reinstalling it might fix the issue.

Step 1: Open Device Manager by pressing Windows + R, typing devmgmt.msc, and pressing Enter.

Step 2: Expand Network adapters, right-click on your wireless adapter, and select Uninstall device.

Step 3: In the confirmation dialog, check the box for Attempt to remove the driver for this device and click Uninstall.

Step 4: Restart your computer. Windows will automatically detect and reinstall the driver upon reboot.

Step 5: Verify if the network connection is restored.

Turn Off Proxy Settings

Incorrect proxy settings can interfere with DHCP. Disabling proxy settings might resolve the connectivity issue.

Step 1: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app. Navigate to the Network & Internet section and select Proxy.

Step 2: Under Manual proxy setup, click on Edit.

Step 3: Toggle off the Use a proxy server option, click Save, and close the Settings window.

Step 4: Test your internet connection to see if the issue is resolved.

Run Network Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix network issues.

Step 1: Right-click the Start menu and select Settings.

Step 2: In the System tab, scroll down and click on Troubleshoot.

Step 3: Click on Other troubleshooters.

Step 4: Find Network and Internet and click on Run.

Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions. Apply any recommended fixes and check your connection.

Restart the Router

Sometimes, issues with the router can cause DHCP errors. Restarting the router can help.

Step 1: Turn off your router using the power button or by unplugging it.

Step 2: Wait for about 30 seconds to allow it to fully power down.

Step 3: Turn the router back on and wait for all the indicator lights to stabilize.

Step 4: Try reconnecting your computer to the Wi-Fi network.

Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall

Security software can sometimes interfere with network connections. Disabling them temporarily can help identify if they're causing the issue.

Step 1: Locate your antivirus icon in the system tray. Right-click on it and choose the option to disable or pause protection.

Step 2: Press Windows + R, type firewall.cpl, and press Enter to open Windows Defender Firewall settings.

Step 3: Click on Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off from the left pane.

Step 4: Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended) for both Private and Public network settings. Click OK.

Step 5: Check if the network issue is resolved. Remember to re-enable your antivirus and firewall afterward to protect your system.

Reset Router

If all else fails, resetting your router to factory settings might help. Note that this will erase all custom configurations.

Step 1: Locate the reset button on your router. It's usually a small hole labeled "Reset."

Step 2: With the router powered on, use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds.

Step 3: Release the button and wait for the router to reboot.

Step 4: Once the router restarts, you'll need to reconfigure your network settings, including setting up your Wi-Fi name and password.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "DHCP is not enabled for 'Wi-Fi'" error and restore your internet connectivity.