What is a disadvantage of using static assignments instead of DHCP reservations?
The correct answer and explanation is:
A disadvantage of using static IP assignments instead of DHCP reservations is the increased potential for IP address conflicts. When static IP addresses are manually configured on devices, administrators must ensure that each device gets a unique address. This can become problematic, especially in larger networks, where tracking all the assigned IPs manually is difficult. If two devices are accidentally assigned the same IP address, a conflict occurs, leading to connectivity issues for both devices. These issues can be hard to diagnose and resolve, often requiring a network administrator to check every device individually to identify the conflicting IPs.
In contrast, DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) reservations allow a network administrator to assign specific IP addresses to certain devices based on their MAC addresses. This process is automated, reducing the possibility of human error. It provides the benefit of centralized management, where a DHCP server assigns IPs dynamically but can still ensure specific devices always receive the same IP address.
Static IP addresses also require manual configuration and updates on every device, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors, especially as the network grows. Additionally, static IP assignments can make it difficult to move devices between networks or subnets, as the IP address would need to be manually changed to fit the new network’s range.
Moreover, managing static IP addresses can be cumbersome for large networks. Over time, if a network’s topology changes or if devices are added or removed, static IPs may become outdated or inefficient, requiring manual adjustments. DHCP reservations simplify network management, allowing for more flexibility and scalability while minimizing administrative overhead.