These topics discuss methods for securing the DHCP server for authorized users and preventing access to the DHCP server.
Dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) provides a framework for passing configuration information to hosts on a TCP/IP network. For your client workstations, DHCP can provide a function similar to auto configuration. A DHCP-enabled program on the client workstation broadcasts a request for configuration information. If the DHCP server is running on your system, the server responds to the request by sending the information that the client workstation needs to correctly configure TCP/IP.
You can use DHCP to make it simpler for users to connect to your system for the first time. This is because the user does not need to enter TCP/IP configuration information. You can also use DHCP to reduce the number of internal TCP/IP addresses that you need in a subnetwork. The DHCP server can temporarily allocate IP addresses to active users (from its pool of IP addresses).
For thin clients, you can use DHCP in place of BOOTP. DHCP provides more function than BOOTP, and it can support dynamic configuration of both thin clients and PCs.