How to Enable DHCP in Windows XP

DHCP is a networking service used for computers to communicate with each other.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, or DHCP, is a networking service that allows computers to download an Internet Protocol, or IP, address and other configuration settings automatically when connecting to a new network. For DHCP to work, your PC must have a DHCP client installed and enabled. You must be connecting to a network that is setup to provide configuration data via DHCP, which almost all home networks are. Windows XP comes with a bundled DHCP client, which can be enabled by users with administrator privileges.

Instructions

1. Log on to your computer with an account that has administrative rights. Click the Windows "Start" Menu and select "Control Panel."

2. Click “Network and Internet Connections” and choose“Network Connections.”

3. Look at the list of network connections and determine which adapter you would like to enable DHCP on. If you are using a wireless connection to access the Internet, look for an adapter titled “Wireless Network Connection.” If your computer is physically plugged into a router, cable modem, DSL modem or other networking device, look for a connection titled “Local Area Connection.”

4. Right-click on the appropriate adapter and select “Properties.” In the window that opens, find the section titled “This connection uses the following items.” Scroll down until you see an item titled “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)” and double-click it.

5. Select the radio buttons titled “Obtain an IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server address automatically” to enable DHCP. If you do not see these radio buttons, make sure you have the "General" tab selected. Click the “OK” button to close this window. Then click the “OK” button to close the adapter properties window.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to enable DHCP on multiple network adapters, just repeat Steps 3 through 5 for any additional adapters you choose.

• If your network adapter has an IP address or DNS server address listed in the Internet Protocol properties window, make sure to write down those addresses. You may need them later to connect to your previous network. This is common when enabling DHCP for a hotel network and then trying to reconnect to a corporate network when you return.

• Changing network settings can disable your home network and prevent you from accessing the Internet. If you are not sure what you are doing, contact your Internet service provider’s technical support before changing anything.

References

• Columbia University Information Technology: How Do I Setup DHCP on My Windows XP System?

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Dux Computer Digest: Tips for Networking Windows XP