Why Use Dhcp; Adsl Barricade Dhcp Modes - SMC Networks ADSL Barricade SMC7204BRA User Manual

Configuring Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
The DHCP server draws from a defined pool of IP addresses
and leases them for a specified amount of time to your computers
when they request an Internet session. It monitors, collects, and
redistributes the addresses as needed.
On a DHCP-enabled network, the IP information is assigned
dynamically rather than statically. A DHCP client can
be assigned a different address from the pool each time
it reconnects to the network.

Why use DHCP?

DHCP allows you to manage and distribute IP addresses
throughout your network from a central computer. Without DHCP,
you would have to configure each computer separately with IP
addresses and related information. DHCP is commonly used
with large networks and those that are frequently expanded
or otherwise updated.

ADSL Barricade DHCP modes

The device can be configured as a DHCP server, relay agent
or client.
•
If you configure the device as a DHCP server, it will maintain the
pool of addresses and distribute them to your LAN computers.
If the pool of addresses includes private IP addresses, you must
also configure the Network Address Translation service, so that
the private addresses can be translated to your public IP address
on the Internet.
•
If your ISP performs the DCHP server function for your network,
then you can configure the device as a DHCP relay agent. When
the ADSL Barricade receives a request for Internet access from
a computer on your network, it contacts your ISP for the
necessary IP information, and then relays the assigned
information back to the computer.
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