AZ-800 Administering Windows Server Hybrid Core Infrastructure Exam

Design and configure DHCP scopes and options

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a key service that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network. In hybrid environments that connect on-premises servers with Azure, DHCP ensures devices can communicate without manual setup. DHCP scopes and options set the boundaries and rules for how addresses and network settings are given out. Using DHCP correctly helps keep networks running smoothly and securely. It prevents address conflicts and simplifies device configuration.

When designing a DHCP scope, you must calculate the range of addresses so every device can get a unique IP. You also need to set exclusions for addresses that should not be assigned automatically, such as those reserved for printers or servers. Proper network segmentation guides these decisions, ensuring one subnet does not exhaust addresses from another. Key tasks include:

• Determining address pools for each network segment
• Defining exclusions for critical or fixed devices
• Planning each scope based on expected device counts

Lease duration specifies how long a device keeps an IP before asking again. Short leases can help high-turnover environments like conference rooms, while long leases suit stable servers. Host reservations map device MAC addresses to specific IPs, ensuring essential hardware always gets the same address. This is critical for services like DNS, file sharing, and DHCP itself.

Beyond ranges and leases, DHCP offers scope-wide options that apply to all devices in a scope, such as default gateways and DNS servers. You can also set vendor-specific options for devices needing special settings, like VoIP phones or security cameras. Applying these options centrally means each device boots with the correct network parameters. It avoids manual configuration on every single device.

Validating that clients receive the right IP and settings is vital. You can review the DHCP server logs or use network tools in Azure to check assignments. Testing both on-premises and Azure-connected subnets ensures consistency across the hybrid network. Regular audits help you catch misconfigurations before users notice issues. Proper validation keeps the network reliable and secure.

Conclusion

Implementing and configuring DHCP for hybrid Windows Server infrastructures hinges on thoughtful scope design. Calculating address pools and setting exclusions based on network segmentation prevents conflicts and maintains smooth connectivity. This foundation ensures every device has a proper IP.

Managing lease durations and host reservations balances address availability with stability, making sure critical servers and devices always retain their addresses. Scope-wide and vendor-specific options further tailor network settings to suit all types of hardware. Centralized options save time and reduce errors.

Finally, validating client IP assignments across on-premises and Azure subnets confirms that DHCP works as intended. Regular checks of logs and network tools catch problems early and uphold network performance. Consistent validation completes a robust DHCP implementation.