Forwarding Client DHCP Requests through Routers

  • Article

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Because client service requests are based on the DHCP discovery process, configuring your network to support RIS-based operating system installations across routers has the same requirements as configuring your network to support DHCP across routers.

Routers that you configure to forward DHCP broadcasts also automatically forward client service requests, however, you must ensure that the requests are forwarded to the proper RIS servers in addition to any DHCP servers. Depending on the model in use and the specific configuration, your router might support DHCP broadcast forwarding to a subnet, a specific host, or another router interface. If you use Windows Server 2003 DHCP but you place your RIS servers on separate computers, or if you use a third-party DHCP service, you must ensure that the routers forward DHCP broadcasts to both the DHCP and RIS servers. Otherwise, the client does not receive a reply to its remote boot request.

Caution

  • You need to enable DHCP on all routers along all router hops between RIS servers and clients.

For this part of your planning process, use job aid "Planning the RIS Network Configuration" (ACIRIS_04.doc) on the Windows Server 2003 Deployment Kit companion CD (or see "Planning the RIS Network Configuration" on the Web at https://www.microsoft.com/reskit) to indicate whether you plan to configure your routers to forward DHCP broadcast traffic.