[NTLUG:Discuss] DHCP

[Fred James]

Terry
I am not an expert, that's for sure, but a static IP within a range 
distributed by a DHCP server will potentially present exactly the 
problem described in the quoted statement, regardless of the type(s) of 
computer(s) on the network.  The suggestion that this may not be a 
problem when there are only a few hosts on the network should include 
some sort of disclaimer.  What is happening is that the DHCP server 
usually begins assigning addresses from one end of the range, working 
toward the other.  If this assignment process reaches the point of the 
static IP in the range, then the probability of a problem is high, 
depending on the likelihood of the two computers actually attempting to 
use that same address at the same time.  In any case, I believe it 
should be considered dicey at best.
Regards
Fred James

Terry wrote:

>Is this an accurate statement (pertaining to a Linux DHCP server
>presiding over [mostly] MS PCs)?
> 
>"Having a system with a static IP assignment that is inside the range
>of IPaddress' used by a DHC P server is not acceptable.  Reason being:
> If a new computer comes on-line, it may be issued that particular
>IPaddress, and if so, there will be a problem.  This may never happen
>on a small network. If there are only a handful of computers on the
>network (half a dozen or so), you may never run into this sort of
>problem.  BUT, if and when the network grows and gets to be fifty or a
> hundred strong, sooner or later, this problem will rear it's ugly
>head.  A computer will come on-line and be issued an IP address that
>has been set as a static address to another computer, .. . and then,
>later on, that other computer with the static IP address will come
>on-line, and at that point they will both compete for access that only
>one can have. During the competition neither of them will get any
>access and only when one gives up will the other gain any bandwidth or
>access to any outside networks. Fixed IPs should _only_ be assigned to
>IP address that are outside the range used by the DHCP server."
>
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