Devices keep losing their IP address and dropping off the network
Your router is running out of IP addresses to give to devices. The DHCP pool is too small or the lease time is too short. Log into your router and increase the DHCP pool size to give out more IP addresses — this fixes it for most people.
Every device on your network needs an IP address like a house needs an address. Your router has a limited number of addresses it can give out — if too many devices connect or they all stay connected, it runs out. Increasing the DHCP pool gives the router more addresses to hand out. You can also increase the lease time so devices keep their addresses longer instead of losing them.
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step — just tap, no typing needed.
Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Increasing the DHCP pool but not restarting the router — the change doesn't take effect without a restart
- Setting the pool end address too high (over 254) — the router can't use addresses above 254
- Thinking the internet is down when it's really just DHCP — your router lost its IP address, not the connection itself
- Not realizing how many devices are actually on the network — count printers, smart home devices, phones, tablets, and computers
Signs you need professional help
- DHCP pool is set to 100+ addresses but devices still drop off
- All devices drop off at the same time, not just one or two
- Problem started happening after a power outage or router restart
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Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only — no parts, no in-home visit needed.