Lab Report: 9
Experiment Name: Design and Implementation of Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
1. Introduction
The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network management protocol used to automate
the process of configuring devices on IP networks. DHCP automatically assigns IP addresses and other
network configuration parameters (such as subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers) to client
devices, enabling seamless connectivity and management while reducing administrative burden and
manual configuration errors.
2. Objective
To design and implement a network with DHCP server functionality.
To configure a router or dedicated DHCP server to dynamically assign IP addresses to client
devices (PCs).
To verify and demonstrate the operation of DHCP in a simulated network environment (e.g.,
Cisco Packet Tracer).
To understand the benefits of DHCP compared to manual/static IP assignment.
3. Resource of Learning
Cisco Packet Tracer software
1 Router (with built-in DHCP server capability)
(or a network switch supporting DHCP or a dedicated DHCP server device)
1 or more switches (optional, for connecting multiple PCs)
Several PCs (at least two recommended)
Copper straight-through cables for connections
4. Network Topology
All PCs connected to Switch0, which uplinks to Router0.
5. IP Addressing Plan
Device Interface Assigned IP Address (DHCP Subnet Mask Gateway
Range)
Router FastEthernet0/0 [Link] (manual) [Link] —
PC0 NIC [Link]–[Link] [Link] [Link]
PC1 NIC Assigned by DHCP [Link] [Link]
PC2 NIC Assigned by DHCP [Link] [Link]
6. Configuration Steps
A. Assign Static IP Address to Router (Gateway)
Router0:
enable
configure terminal
interface fastethernet0/0
ip address [Link] [Link]
no shutdown
exit
B. Configure DHCP on Router
ip dhcp pool OFFICE
network [Link] [Link]
default-router [Link]
dns-server [Link]
lease 7
exit
ip dhcp excluded-address [Link]
[Link]
Explanation:
ip dhcp pool OFFICE creates a new pool for DHCP-assigned IPs.
The network and subnet mask define the address range.
default-router sets the gateway for DHCP clients.
dns-server provides DNS information to clients.
lease 7 sets the lease time to 7 days (optional).
ip dhcp excluded-address ensures the router and reserved IPs are not handed out to clients.
C. Configure PCs
Set each PC's network configuration to "DHCP" or "Obtain IP address automatically" in Cisco
Packet Tracer.
D. Verification
On each PC, check the assigned IP address (should match the DHCP pool and use [Link]
as the gateway).
Use ipconfig (in PC Command Prompt) to verify.
From a PC, ping the gateway ([Link]) to confirm connectivity.
On the router, use show ip dhcp binding to see the list of dynamically assigned IPs.
7. Expected Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate a clear understanding of DHCP operation and benefits over static IP assignment.
Successfully configure a DHCP server on a router to serve multiple devices.
Observe and verify dynamic IP address allocation and explore DHCP lease and renewal concepts.
Gain experience in troubleshooting basic DHCP and connectivity issues in simulated lab
environments.
8. Conclusion
This lab detailed the design and implementation of DHCP, providing practical insights into how networks
assign configuration information dynamically. DHCP reduces administrative overhead, ensures devices
receive correct configurations, and improves network management efficiency. Testing in Packet Tracer
showcased its effectiveness in distributing addresses and parameters to multiple hosts automatically.