Fix: Dhcp Lookup Failed In Chromebook

The “ DHCP lookup failed ” error on a Chromebook stops network access because the device can’t get an IP address from the DHCP server. This usually happens due to wrong network settings, outdated Chrome OS versions, or certain router setups.

DHCP Lookup Failed

Other factors like network congestion, firewall restrictions, or Wi-Fi channel conflicts can also cause this issue.

In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.

1. Restart Your Networking Equipment and Chrome

Turning your networking equipment and Chromebook off and on again can fix the “DHCP lookup failed” error by establishing a new connection and resolving IP address issues.

1. Completely Shut Down your Chromebook (not just sleep mode).
2. Turn off your modem/router and unplug it from the power source.
3. Wait 30 seconds , then plug everything back in and power on the router/modem.
4. Ensure the modem/router’s lights have stabilized .
5. Switch on the Chromebook and connect it to the Wi-Fi to verify if the error is resolved.

2. Change the Sleep Settings of Chromebook

Changing your Chromebook’s sleep settings stops it from disconnecting when idle, helping to avoid DHCP issues. This reduces IP conflicts and network problems after sleep, supporting a stable connection.

1. Open the Quick Settings panel on your Chromebook.
2. Click the Power icon.
3. Set When Idle to Turn off Display but Stay Awake . Turn Off Display But Stay Awake
4. Set When Lid is Closed to Stay Awake . Select the Option of Stay Awake
5. Exit settings, then restart your Chromebook and connect to the network to check if the error is resolved.

Note: Do note that this will prevent your Chromebook from completely sleeping when you close the lid. Only the screen will turn off. This is a workaround, not a fix.

3. Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network

Disconnecting and reconnecting to the Wi-Fi network makes the Chromebook request a new IP address from the DHCP server. This reset can fix temporary connectivity issues or conflicts that caused the DHCP lookup to fail.

1. In the bottom right corner of the screen, click the Wi-Fi icon , then click the name of the network . Click on the Name of the Network
2. Click the gear icon to open the Network Settings window.
3. Click on Wi-Fi . Click on Wi-Fi
4. Disconnect from the network (if connected), then click the right arrow of the network you want to forget. Click on the Right Arrow of the Network
5. Click the Forget button . Click on the Forget Button
6. Restart your device, then connect to the network to see if it is working correctly.

4. Use Google Name Servers for the Network

Using Google’s name servers can help your Chromebook connect better by avoiding issues with your network’s settings. This change provides a faster, more stable connection, reducing “DHCP lookup failed” errors.

1. Open the Settings of your Chromebook.
2. Under Network , click on Wi-Fi . Click on Wi-Fi Option
3. Click on the right-arrow of the problematic network. Click on the Right Arrow of the Network
4. Scroll down and open the dropdown for “ Name Servers .”
5. Select “ Google Name Servers .” Use Google Name Servers
6. Connect to the network and check if the DHCP issue is resolved.
7. If not, restart your system, repeat the process, and in the network settings, select “ Automatic Name Servers ” (where Google Name Servers were chosen previously). Use Automatic Name Servers
8. Connect to the network again and check if the Chromebook is clear of the error.
9. If not, open the Network Settings of your connection and disable the option “ Configure IP Address Automatically .” Disable Automatic IP Address
10. Set a manual IP address for your device according to the IP scheme and restart the Chromebook.
11. Upon restart, check if your device is free of the DHCP error.

5. Extend the DHCP Range of Addresses of the Network

Increasing the DHCP range offers more IP addresses, helping all devices connect without running out. This reduces connectivity issues, ensuring each device gets a unique IP for a stable connection.

1. Open your router’s web portal in a browser and log in using your credentials.
2. Navigate to the DHCP tab of the settings. Open DHCP Tab in the Router’s Settings
3. Increase the DHCP IP range . For example, if the upper range is 192.168.1.200, increase it to 192.168.1.253. Some routers also allow you to specify the number of devices that can connect to the Wi-Fi network. Increase IP Range in the DHCP Settings
4. Save your changes and exit the portal.
5. Try to connect to the network to see if it is free of the DHCP failed error.

6. Change the Frequency Band of Your Wi-Fi Network

Changing your Wi-Fi network’s frequency band can improve connectivity on your Chromebook. The 2.4 GHz band is crowded and slower, while the 5 GHz band offers less interference and faster, more stable connections, which can help keep the network running smoothly.

1. Open your router’s web portal and log in with your credentials.
2. Navigate to the Wireless settings tab.
3. Change the band : if 2.4 GHz is selected, switch to 5 GHz, and vice versa.
4. Save your changes and exit the portal.
5. Restart your system and connect to the network to see if it is operating normally.

7. Update Chrome OS of Your Chromebook

Sometimes, updating your Chromebook’s OS is all it takes to improve network stability, with important fixes and improvements for smoother connectivity. This simple step can resolve hidden issues and ensure a more reliable Wi-Fi experience.

1. Connect your device to the internet using an ethernet cable or Wi-Fi.
2. Open the Settings of your Chromebook.
3. In the left pane, click on About Chrome OS .
4. Click on Check for Updates . Check for Update of Chromebook
5. After updating the OS, restart your device.
6. Try to connect to the network and check if the device is free of the error.

8. Reset Your Router/Modem to Default Settings

This issue can be caused by wrong settings in your router or modem, stopping your Chromebook from getting an IP address. Resetting the device to default settings removes any problems, restoring stable configurations for a smoother DHCP process.

1. Power on your router/modem if it is not already on.
2. Find the Reset button, typically on the bottom or back of the device.
3. Press the reset button for at least 30 seconds. You may need something like a paperclip. Reset Your Router
4. Release the button and wait for the router to reset and fully power on, which usually takes 30 to 60 seconds.
5. If there is no reset button, check your device’s manual to see if the power button can be used to reset the device.

You can also use the web portal of your device to perform the reset operation of your device

1. Open a web browser and enter the default gateway address (find it using IPConfig in Command Prompt or on the router’s back).
2. Enter your credentials to access the web portal (default login and password are ‘admin’).
3. Locate the reset option in the General or System tab. Click on Reset Settings (or Restore Defaults) and confirm to reset. Wait for the reset process to finish. Restore Your Router to Default Settings
4. After resetting, restart your system and connect to the network to see if the DHCP error is resolved.

How to Fix “Printer is in an error state” Issue?

• Common Chromebook printing issues include printer incompatibility, network connection problems, and outdated software or firmware.
• Solutions involve checking printer compatibility, ensuring both devices are on the same network, adding the printer manually, updating software, or using a USB connection.
• If issues persist, restart devices, troubleshoot the wireless connection, and update printer firmware; contacting support may be necessary for unresolved problems.

We’ve all been there—you need to print something important, and your Chromebook isn’t cooperating. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Printing issues with Chromebooks are common but usually easy to fix.

Samsung Chromebook | Unsplash

• 1. Check Printer Compatibility
• 2. Connect Both Devices to the Same Network
• 3. Select Your Printer
• 4. Add Your Printer Manually
• 5. Restart Devices
• 6. Check Printer Settings
• 7. Update Chrome OS
• 8. Update Printer Firmware
• 9. Use a USB Connection (if applicable)
• 10. Troubleshoot Wireless Connection
• 11. Check for Print Quality Issues
• 12. Contact Support

In this guide, we’ll take you through straightforward steps to get your Chromebook working with your printer again. Let’s tackle this together, one step at a time.

But before we get into the solutions, let’s identify some common causes of printing issues on Chromebooks.

• Printer Incompatibility: Chromebooks have built-in drivers that may not be compatible with all printer models. Older printers or those requiring specific drivers may not work.
• Network Connection Problems: Both the Chromebook and printer must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for wireless printing to work. Issues with the network configuration can prevent successful connections.
• USB Connection Issues: Problems with the USB cable or the USB ports on either device can cause printing failures when using a USB cable.
• Outdated Chrome OS: Running an outdated version of Chrome OS can lead to compatibility issues with printers.
• Outdated Printer Firmware: Older printer firmware may not work well with the latest Chrome OS versions, causing printing problems.

Chromebook Supported Printers by Epson

Now that you know the probable causes, check out the solutions below to fix the issue:

1. Check Printer Compatibility

Before attempting any fixes, ensure your printer is compatible with Chrome OS . Visit your printer manufacturer’s website to find information about your specific printer model and its compatibility with Chrome OS or Chromebook.

You can also check the list of ‘Certified “Works with Chromebook” printers’ on the Chromebook Help forum by Google . If your printer is listed, proceed to the next step. If not, you might need a compatible printer .

List of Printers Compatible with Chromebooks by Google | See Full List onChromebook Help

How This Helps: Ensuring printer compatibility with Chrome OS is crucial, as not all printers work seamlessly with Chromebooks. If incompatible, consider purchasing a different model verified to work with Chrome OS.

2. Connect Both Devices to the Same Network

1. Turn on your printer and connect it to your Wi-Fi network. Refer to your printer’s manual for instructions. Connect Your Printer to Wi-Fi | WikiHow
2. On your Chromebook, click the time in the bottom right corner to open the quick settings menu. Opening the quick settings menu on your Chromebook by clicking the time in the bottom right corner
3. Ensure your Chromebook is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer. If not, click the Wi-Fi icon and select your network. Ensure the Wi-Fi toggle is on and connected to the same network as your printer

How This Helps: Both devices need to be on the same network to communicate effectively. If they’re not, the Chromebook won’t find the printer, leading to printing failures.

3. Select Your Printer

1. Press Ctrl + P on your Chromebook to open the print dialog. Press Ctrl + P to open the print dialog on your Chromebook
2. In the print dialog, click the “Destination” dropdown and find your printer in the list. Select it and proceed to print. In the print dialog, select your printer from the ‘Destination’ dropdown
3. If your printer is not listed, click “See more” at the bottom. If your printer isn’t listed, click ‘See more’ at the bottom

How This Helps: Selecting the correct printer is essential for printing. If the wrong printer is selected, or if the printer is not visible, the print job won’t proceed. This step ensures the Chromebook recognizes and is set to use the correct printer.

4. Add Your Printer Manually

1. If your printer is not showing up, click on the time in the bottom right corner to open the quick settings menu. Opening the quick settings menu on your Chromebook by clicking the time in the bottom right corner
2. Click the gear icon ⚙️ to open Settings . Open the Settings Menu
3. Scroll down and click “Advanced” to expand advanced settings. Click on Advanced
4. Under “Printing” , click “Printers” . Click on Printers
5. Click on Add Printer icon Click Add Printer Icon
6. Enter the following information about your printer: Name: Give your printer a recognizable name. Address: Enter your printer’s IP address. Print a network configuration page from your printer to find this. Protocol: Select “Internet Printing Protocol (IPP)” . Fill in Your Printer Details
7. Click “Add” to save the printer settings. Click Add to Save the Printer

How This Helps: Manually adding your printer can resolve issues where automatic detection fails, allowing the Chromebook to communicate with the printer directly using its IP address.

5. Restart Devices

1. Turn off your printer and wait for about 30 seconds.
2. Turn your printer back on and wait for it to fully power up. Turn off your printer, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on and wait for it to fully power up | WikiHow
3. On your Chromebook, click the time in the bottom right corner and select “Sign out” . Click the time and select ‘Sign out’
4. Sign back in to your Chromebook and check if the printer is now recognized.

How This Helps: Restarting both devices can clear temporary glitches or connectivity issues. This simple step often resolves many common problems.

6. Check Printer Settings

1. Click the time in the bottom right corner and select the gear icon ⚙️ to open Settings . Open the Settings Menu
2. Scroll down and click “Advanced” to expand advanced settings. Click on Advanced
3. Under “Printing” , click “Printers” . Click on Printers
4. Ensure that your printer is listed correctly with the right name and IP address.
5. If necessary, remove the printer by clicking on the three-dot menu next to it and selecting “Remove” .
6. Add the printer again manually using the steps in Section 4 .

How This Helps: Verifying and correcting printer settings ensures that the Chromebook is properly configured to communicate with the printer. Discrepancies in the printer name or IP address can lead to connection issues.

7. Update Chrome OS

1. Click the time in the bottom right corner and select the gear icon ⚙️ to open Settings . Open the Settings Menu
2. Scroll down and click “About Chrome OS” . Click ‘About Chrome OS’
3. Click “Check for updates” . Click on ‘Check for Updates’
4. If an update is available, it will start downloading automatically. Once downloaded, click “Restart” to install the update.

How This Helps: Keeping Chrome OS updated ensures you have the latest features, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements. Updates can resolve issues affecting printing functionality.

8. Update Printer Firmware

1. Visit your printer manufacturer’s website and search for your specific printer model.
2. Look for a “Support” or “Downloads” section and find the latest firmware update for your printer.
3. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to download and install the firmware update on your printer.

Canon G1330 Support Page

How This Helps: Printer firmware updates can fix bugs and improve compatibility with newer operating systems, including Chrome OS. This is essential for ensuring that your printer functions correctly with your Chromebook.

9. Use a USB Connection (if applicable)

1. Ensure your printer is turned on and ready to print.
2. Connect your printer to your Chromebook using a USB cable.
3. A notification should appear on your Chromebook, asking if you want to set up the printer. Click “Set up” to proceed.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the USB printer setup.

Connect your Chromebook to the printer via USB | WikiHow

How This Helps: Using a USB connection can bypass network issues entirely, allowing you to print directly from your Chromebook. This method is often more reliable when wireless connections fail .

10. Troubleshoot Wireless Connection

1. On your printer, ensure Wi-Fi is enabled and connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.
2. Power cycle your printer by turning it off, waiting for 30 seconds , and then turning it back on.
3. Power cycle your Wi-Fi router by unplugging it from the power source, waiting for 30 seconds , and then plugging it back in.
4. Wait for the router to fully power up and reconnect your Chromebook and printer to the Wi-Fi network.

Power Cycle Your Wi-Fi Router

How This Helps: Troubleshooting the wireless connection ensures that both devices are properly connected to the network. This can resolve issues caused by network interruptions or misconfigurations.

11. Check for Print Quality Issues

1. Check the ink or toner levels in your printer. Replace any cartridges that are low or empty.
2. Clean the printer heads by following the instructions in your printer’s manual. This can help resolve issues with blurry or faded prints.
3. Run a test print from your printer to ensure that the print quality is satisfactory.

Check your printer’s ink or toner levels

How This Helps: Addressing print quality issues ensures that your documents print clearly and correctly. Low ink or clogged print heads can lead to poor print results, which may be mistaken for connectivity problems .

12. Contact Support

If the steps above didn’t fix the printing issue on your Chromebook, don’t stress. You can always reach out to your printer’s customer support—they might have more specific tips based on your printer model. If you’re still stuck, try posting your problem on the Chromebook Help Forum or contact Google support for extra help.

Chromebook Help

Follow these solutions, and you should fix most printing problems on your Chromebook. Ensure your printer and Chromebook are compatible, double-check that everything’s connected to the same network, keep your software updated , and if all else fails, try connecting in a different way. You’ve got this!

If your printer shows as “offline,” first check if it is powered on and connected to the same network as your Chromebook. Restart both the printer and Chromebook. If it’s still offline, try unplugging the printer for a minute, then plug it back in. Also, check the printer’s network settings to ensure it is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network.

If you can print some documents but not others, the issue may be related to the specific file type or format. For example, PDFs can sometimes have compatibility issues. Try opening the document in a different application or converting it to another format. Other than that, check the printer settings to ensure they are configured correctly for the document type.

To clear the print queue, open the Chrome browser and type chrome://devices in the address bar. Under the “Printers” section, find your printer and click “Manage.” From there, you can clear the print queue by selecting “Clear spooler.” This can help resolve issues with stuck print jobs.

If your printer is connected but won’t print, check for any error messages on the printer itself. Ensure that there are no paper jams, and that ink or toner levels are sufficient. Restart both the printer and Chromebook, and verify that the correct printer is selected in the print dialog. If the problem persists, consider updating your printer firmware.

Yes, you can print from a Chromebook without a Wi-Fi connection by using a USB cable to connect the printer directly to the Chromebook. This method allows you to bypass network issues and print directly from your device.