Fixing the “DHCP Lookup Failed Chromebook” Error

When your Chromebook shows the “DHCP lookup failed” message, it means it can’t connect to the network.

This issue usually appears when the device is unable to get an IP address from your router.

Reasons may include bad settings, outdated software, or a mismatch with your router setup.

Here are several ways to get rid of this error:

Power Cycle Your Chromebook

Restarting both your Chromebook and your modem or router can clear temporary problems and help form a new connection.

Steps to follow:

Modify Idle Behavior Settings On Chromebook

Preventing the device from sleeping when not in use can avoid network problems.

• Open the quick settings panel
• Click the Power symbol
• Change When Idle to Turn off screen but stay active
  
• Under Lid Closed, pick Stay active
  
• Save settings and restart the Chromebook

This only stops the screen, not the system, from sleeping.

Rejoin the Wireless Connection

Reconnecting lets the Chromebook ask for a fresh IP, which might fix the issue.

• Click on the Wi-Fi symbol on the lower right
• Select your network name
• Open settings by clicking the gear
• Tap Wi-Fi, then the arrow next to your network
• Choose Forget
  
• Reboot and connect again

Apply Google DNS Servers On Chromebook

Switching to Google’s DNS can fix address problems that may cause DHCP lookup errors.

To switch:

• Go to Chromebook Settings
  
• Tap Wi-Fi
  
• Hit the arrow next to the active network
• Scroll to Name Servers
  
• Choose Google Servers
  
• Restart and test the connection

If the issue stays, change back to Automatic Name Servers or:

Increase Available IPs in Router

If the network runs out of IPs, this can trigger the DHCP problem. Expanding the range can solve it.

• Log in to your router’s control panel
• Go to the DHCP section
• Widen the range (e.g., up to 192.168.1.253)
• Some routers let you raise the number of allowed devices
• Save settings and reconnect

Shift Wireless Frequency Band

Switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz can reduce signal problems.

• Log in to the  router admin panel
• Head to Wireless Settings
  
• Change the current band
• Save and reboot Chromebook
• Reconnect to Wi-Fi

Install the Latest Chrome OS Update

Software updates often bring network fixes that may help resolve the DHCP lookup failed Chromebook issue.

• Connect using Ethernet or Wi-Fi
• Go to Settings > About Chrome OS
  
• Click Check for Updates
  
• Install any updates that are available
• Restart your device and connect

Reset Router or Modem to Factory Settings

Incorrect network settings can block IP allocation. Resetting clears misconfigurations.

Reset options:

After reset, reconnect your Chromebook and see if the DHCP issue is gone.

By following these steps, you can solve the DHCP lookup failed Chromebook error and restore your internet access.