If you are experimenting with your wireless network, you may wonder how to turn off DHCP on a router. The best routers, after all, allow for all kinds of setting adjustments to suit different consumers. Why would you turn off DHCP on a router and how would you go about doing it? Keep reading to find out.
Key Takeaways_
- Turning off a DHCP server can help improve the overall security of your wireless network, though it does complicate the process of connecting to valid devices.
- Start by heading into the network settings adjustment page of your wireless router, which is typically done by entering the router’s static IP address or current IP address into a web browser on a PC or mobile device.
- Look for the DHCP settings page, and be sure to disable the feature. Save your changes and reset the router.
Why Turn Off DHCP on a Router?
The main reason one would do this is for increased security. DHCP is the protocol your router uses to automatically give each of your connected devices an IP address. It does this automatically via a pool of available IP addresses. If you turn off DHCP, you’ll have to manually configure each connected device and assign it an IP address. This is more time-consuming but is considered to be safer.
STAT: By default, the router acts as a DHCP server. The router assigns IP, DNS server, and default gateway addresses to all computers connected to the LAN. The assigned default gateway address is the LAN address of the router. (source)
For more useful info on networking, check out our guide to converting an older router into an access point and turning off the WiFi on a router.
How to Disable DHCP on a Router
Each router is different, so it will demand a unique process for turning off DHCP, so we have tried to keep these guidelines as universal as possible. Don’t fret, however, as it is not too difficult of a process, akin to learning how to turn off 5GHz on a router. Here are the steps to take.
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While in the settings menu, you can disable wireless bands or conduct network surveys, among other tasks.
STEP 1 Ensure the Router is Connected
- Make sure your router is connected properly to the modem via an Ethernet cable and that both devices are operating successfully.
- The modem should transmit a valid Internet connection, and the router should transmit this signal wirelessly to all connected devices.
STEP 2 Access Admin Settings
- You’ll have to access the settings page or admin panel to make these changes. This process differs from router to router, so check your instructions for specific steps for your model. You can also perform a quick web search for specifics.
- In most cases, you can access a router’s settings page by entering the public IP address into the address bar of a web browser.
- Other options? Open up the firmware software or use the manufacturer’s mobile app.
STEP 3 Disable DHCP
- Find the part of the settings menu that allows you to enable or disable DHCP.
- Disable the function and save your changes.
