What is DHCP Server

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network protocol used for assigning an IP address to network clients dynamically from pre-defined IP pool. It is useful for LAN network, but not generally used for production servers. DHCP works on the concept of a ‘lease’ ( amount ) of time that a given IP address will be valid for a network computer. The lease time can vary depending on how long a user is likely to require the Internet connection or DHCP configuration.

• Setup DHCP Server on Ubuntu & Debian
• Setup DHCP Server on CentOS & Redhat

IP Assignment Process of DHCP Server

1. When a client computer starts, If it is configured to use DHCP Server to get IP address.
2. Client Computer sends a DISCOVER broadcast request on network.
3. DHCP server received this request and sends an OFFER packet back to client.
4. After getting offer packet, client sends a REQUEST packet to DHCP server to assign his an IP.
5. DHCP Server assigned the IP to client computer and sends a ACK packet to client.

More About DHCP Protocol

• DHCP is a connection less protocol.
• DHCP uses destination UDP port 67 for sending data to the server, and UDP port 68 for data to the client.
• DHCP process is often abbreviated as DORA (Discovery, Offer, Request, Acknowledgement).
• DHCP servers and clients initially communicates via UDP broadcasts on the same subnet.
• DHCP Helper or DHCP Relay Agent may be used if servers and client are on different subnet.
• Clients communicate directly via UDP unicast, requesting renewal of an existing lease.