Setting up a DHCP server - a guide
With the following instructions you can easily set up a DHCP server in your own network. The DHCP server automatically assigns an IP address to new devices in the network. You can also specify that only certain devices are allowed on your network. This can be helpful for WiFi networks.
Start the DHCP server on the router
Almost every router has a DHCP server, which you only have to switch on. This is the simplest variant, because you do not have to set up a server or install any software.
- Go to your router's configuration page with your browser. These can be found under the IP of the device, eg "192.168.1.1". If you have a FritzBox, type "fritz.box" in the address bar. Log in as admin.
- If you do not know the address of your router, open the start bar under Windows and click on "Run". Type in "cmd" and confirm with Enter. A black console window opens. Here you can view the network configuration of your computer with the "ipconfig" command. The IP of your router can be found under "Gate".
- The settings for the DHCP server can often be found under the menu items "Network", "LAN Setup" or "Settings". The DHCP server is switched on by default in the FritzBox. You can view and edit connected devices under "Home network - Network".
- In the FritzBox you can switch the DHCP server on and off under "Home network - Network - Network settings" and the button "IPv4 addresses". The address range in which the server should work can also be specified there.
- If you are working with two routers, always switch on only one of the two DHCP servers. Two DHCP servers in a network interfere with each other.
Set Windows and OS X clients to the DHCP server
In order for Windows and Mac to get their IP from the DHCP server in the future, you have to make a few small settings. You can find picture instructions below in the gallery.
- In Windows, go to the "Network and Sharing Center" via the Control Panel. On the left side of the sidebar you will find the option "Change adapter settings". Click on it.
- With a right click on the active network adapter (eg LAN connection) you can select the "Properties" item in the menu. Find the "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP / IP)" in the list of the new window and then click on the "Properties" button below.
- In the pop-up window you can now select the option "Obtain an IP address automatically". Now your PC gets the address from the DHCP server.
- In Mac OS X you will find the corresponding settings under "System Preferences - Network". Select the active connection with which you are on the network in the bar on the left.
- Then click the "More Options" button a little further to the right. A window rolls down from above. There, go to the "TCP / IP" sub-item and select the "DHCP" option in the "Configure IPv4" drop-down menu.
Another practical tip shows you how you can operate two routers in a network.