How to Configure a File Server IP in a DHCP Environment?

N10-009 By islever Editorial Last updated

Short answer

B A reservation for the server based on the MAC address

Question

A network administrator needs to set up a file server to allow user access. The organization uses DHCP to assign IP addresses. Which of the following is the best solution for the administrator to set up?
  1. A separate scope for the file server using a /32 subnet
  2. A reservation for the server based on the MAC address Correct Answer
  3. A static IP address within the DHCP IP range
  4. A SLAAC for the server

Key Takeaways

This question tests the ability to maintain server address stability within a dynamic environment, with the common trap being selecting a static IP within the DHCP scope which risks IP conflicts.

To ensure consistent user access to a file server within a DHCP environment, a DHCP reservation is the recommended solution. The community consensus confirms that assigning a specific IP based on the MAC address provides stability without manual static configuration.

Common mistake: Selecting a static IP address within the DHCP IP range (Option C) is a common error because it creates a high risk of IP address conflicts if the DHCP server assigns that address to another client.

Expert Analysis

Why the Answer Is Correct

A DHCP reservation maps a specific IP address to a device's MAC address. This ensures the file server always receives the same IP, making it accessible to users, while still allowing the admin to manage settings centrally via the DHCP server. This is the standard best practice for servers on DHCP networks.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option A is unnecessary and complex; a /32 scope is inefficient for a single host. Option C is dangerous because manually assigning a static IP inside the DHCP range can lead to duplicate IP addresses if the DHCP server leases that IP to another device. Option D (SLAAC) is used for IPv6 auto-configuration and does not guarantee the specific, stable address control required for a file server in this context.

Community Comment Notes

Commenters strongly support the reservation method, noting that it simplifies management if scope options change. One user explicitly pointed out that a /32 subnet provides no available host IPs, and another confirmed that SLAAC is not applicable here.

Official Reference

These links open the official vendor documentation in a new tab.

Exam Strategy

When configuring servers in a DHCP environment, always look for the option to create a 'Reservation' rather than setting a manual static IP. This prevents IP conflicts and ensures the server retains the same address while benefiting from centralized network policy updates.

Community Votes

B
100%

100% of anonymous learners picked answer B. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.

Discussion 4 contributions

Compiled from public community threads and reader submissions, lightly edited for clarity. Handles and vote tallies are shown as recorded, and comments reflect the views of individual contributors.

From public community threads 4

  1. BobbyCruz111 👍 7 Answered B
    DHCP Reservation: A DHCP reservation allows the administrator to assign a specific IP address to the file server based on its MAC address. This means that the file server will always receive the same IP address from the DHCP server, ensuring stable and predictable access for users while still utilizing DHCP for address management.
  2. chrys 👍 2
    DHCP reservation is perfect. That way, if you change scope options, you don't have to go manually configuring it on all your servers.
  3. Commando9800 👍 1
    B. A reservation for the server based on the MAC address A is wrong because /32 has no available host IPs C no D no
  4. chupapi_001 👍 1 Answered B
    The correct answer is B: A reservation for the server based on the MAC address.

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