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.”

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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.