Solving Mac IP Address Connection Problems with DHCP
Having trouble connecting your Mac to the internet? Then you might have some IP address related problem that should be addressed as soon as possible. An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a requirement for any network connected device to access the network services such as online connectivity. Without a properly working IP address, connecting to the internet and other network services is impossible.
Fortunately, there are handy solutions to address this concern. Simply follow these step-by-step processes to get you connected online in no time.
Power Cycling Your Router
Your router automatically assigns an IP address to every connected device. This process eliminates the need to create your own IP address and prevent any duplication on two or more devices. A router power cycle could reset each device's IP address.
To power cycle, unplug your router for at least 30 seconds. This will allow your router to completely restart the network connectivity of each device including assigning a brand new IP address. It's the simplest solution to various network problems – that is why this is often the recommended first step from online companies when you ask for assistance.
Of course, power cycling the router is not a solution to everything. There are also other solutions to consider to ensure your IP address properly connects to the network.
A really good reason why a power cycle is a perfect solution to a network problem is IP conflict. Your Mac will actually detect this while trying to access the network as it will give you this prompt:
After power cycling, the router will renew each connected device's IP address which will prevent any type of IP conflict.
Renewing Your DHCP Lease
DHCP or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol is simply a process employed by your router that automatically assigns an IP address to a connected device. A router will also provide a "DHCP Lease" – a practice that temporarily assigns an IP address to a device. If you have trouble connecting online, renewing your DHCP Lease might provide a fix.
Before trying this fix, make sure that the problem of online connectivity and other network services is only limited to your device. There are times that the problem is not just on your Mac which means the problem is not on your device but on the service provider itself. If you're sure that the problem is only on your Mac or Macbook, then you may proceed with this solution.
To renew your DHCP Lease, go to System Settings > Network > Name of Your Wireless Network > TCP/IP
Depending on your MAC OS Version, the button to renew your DHCP Lease will look like this:
This solution will confirm your IP address to your current network and a favorable response increases your chance to properly connect online.
Creating A New Network Service
Another clever solution to solve your DHCP problem in creating an IP Address is to simply create a new network service. This feature is used by power users who want to create a different network profile for various purposes. In this case, your current network profile might not work due to some IP problems so a new network might just do the trick.
To access this feature, go to System Settings > Network, find the three dots button with a drop down button for services and click on "Add Service"
What you're doing right now is to create a new profile within the same network. Follow the instructions on the required data (Interface, Service Name) and click on "Create"
Once you have created a new network service, you'll have an additional wireless network profile within the same network. Renew your DHCP Lease using the previously mentioned process to get the connection started.
These solutions ensure that your Mac has a unique and secure IP address that allows you to connect online. Simply follow these instructions to avoid connection problems in the future.
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