ISC DHCP server (isc-dhcp-server)

The ISC DHCP server program is a widely used DHCP server on Linux that automates the network configuration of hosts within a TCP/IP network. It dynamically assigns IP addresses and other essential network parameters to clients, greatly facilitating network management and administration.

Warning : this ISC DHCP server program is no longer supported since the end of 2022.
Source: ISC DHCP - ISC.

Dynamic IP Address Allocation

The ISC DHCP server assigns IP addresses to client machines automatically from a defined range for each subnet. This assignment can be temporary (with configurable lease times), optimizing IP address usage across the network. You thus save time and avoid address conflicts from manual configuration.

Provision of Additional Network Parameters

Beyond IP addresses, ISC DHCP delivers various necessary information to clients for proper network operation, such as subnet masks, broadcast addresses, default gateways, DNS servers, and even specific options like NTP servers. These parameters are defined in the server configuration and automatically transmitted to clients.

Protocol Compatibility and Advanced Management

ISC DHCP supports clients using both DHCP and BOOTP protocols, providing broad compatibility. It offers extensive configuration options through its dhcpd.conf file, including subnet management, address pools, and custom options. The configuration can integrate network boot protocols (PXE), facilitating client system initialization and deployment across large networks.

This flexibility and rich functionality make ISC DHCP server a reference tool for efficient IP address and network parameter management in professional Linux environments.