How to configure DNS and DHCP settings correctly for university network access (Windows)

Introduction

For optimum access to university networks, users are advised to connect via the university's DNS servers.

University-owned and managed devices already have the recommended DNS and DHCP server configurations set up.

Who is this article for?

This article is helpful for all University of Warwick staff and students.

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Last revised: 13/08/25

Using the university's DNS servers improves the security of our university networks by –

Enhancing threat protection– our DNS helps block harmful websites, keeping you and your data safer online

Ensuring consistent security– using one trusted DNS service allows us to protect everyone on the network

Improving overall visibility– helps us respond to cyber threats more quickly and effectively

If you are using university-owned, unmanaged or self-managed devices, or a personal device to connect to the university network, please follow these instructions to check your settings and ensure your devices are set up to obtain DNS and DHCP settings automatically, to ensure your Windows device has the recommended configuration.

If you are using an alternative, third-party DNS and DHCP server, you may experience a loss of connectivity to the internet, to university networks and network services. You will need to reset your Windows device to obtain its DNS and DHCP settings automatically, ensuring your Windows device has the recommended configuration.

How to check your DHCP and DNS settings on a Windows device

These instructions apply to university-owned, unmanaged or self-managed devices, or personally-owned devices and will enable you to check and reset your configuration.

Windows 10 and Windows 11

In the Start Menu, search for View network connections

Right-click the relevant network connection and select Properties

Select the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP) item and click the Properties button.

Windows DNS settings properties IP address obtain menu

Both of the options should be set to obtain DNS and DHCP settings automatically:

Obtain an IP address automatically

Obtain the DNS server address automatically