DHCP Addressing

DHCP leases expire. If a printer using a leased IP cannot renew that address no one would be able to print. Same for other infrastructure devices (routers, hubs, etc.). So far as workstations, unless there is an overriding need for static IP assignment, DHCP is much easier.

Another reason for using DHCP is that you do not have to keep track of the IP addresses you use. The DHCP server keeps track of all information and it's a one stop location for changing gateway address, DNS, WINS, and other IP addresses on all clients. Not using DHCP would be a hugh time waster for anything over 10 or so workstations.

DHCP is nice for client workstations. Servers (any kind of server) should have a fixed IP address, since a network printer is a print *server*, it stands to reason that is should have it's own fixed address. As an extra data point, I've seen several brands of printer get a DHCP address and treat it as a BOOTP address (infinite lease, no renewals) the result is that the DHCP server ends up marking that address as broken or as free (which will then get assigned to another machine - definitely not something you'll enjoy).

Advantages of Static IP Addressing
1. The two names (Windows name and DNS name) are the same as each other, and neither ever changes. Other clients may therefore reliably access your machine by its DNS name (e.g., using ftp ).
2. Your machine is more easily accessible by non-Windows internet services. This is not a significant advantage as people seldom telnet to their Windows PC.

Disadvantages of Static IP Addressing
1. Does not efficiently utilize assigned IP address.
2. Does not safeguard against duplication.
3. Does not facilitate mobility.
4. Complicates moves, adds and changes.
5. Offers no information on usage.
6. No authentication.

Advantages of DHCP
1. Users are able to connect new machines to the network and automatically receive their IP address.
2. Gateway, DNS,WINS, and default domain can be sent at system startup
3. DHCP substitutes the manual entry of the above items.
4. Helps avoid duplicate IPs.
5. Efficient use of IP domain.
6. Avoids errors inconfiguration.
7. Allows for the configuration of a large number of devices in a short amount of time.
8. Office moves will work transparently.
9. Eases the administration of IP addresses.
10. Allows network authentication via MAC address registration.
11. Clients in public areas, conference rooms, and classrooms with a registered MAC Address will be able to obtain an IP address.
12. Able to Assign Permanent leases to servers and printers.

Disadvantages of DHCP
1. Your machine name does not change when you get a new IP address. The DNS (Domain Name System) name is associated with your IP address and therefore does change. This only presents a problem if other clients try to access your machine by its DNS name.

The weight is clearly in the favor of DHCP, since you'll be assigned permanent leases to devices that people will try to connect to by name (servers and printers).

Good Luck,
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