DHCP Enhancements in Windows 10 April 2018 Update

Updated DHCP Client

The Windows 10 April 2018 Update brings significant improvements to the DHCP client. One notable change is the inclusion of new DHCP Client-side features, such as the ability to identify specific devices by their Vendor Class Identifier (Option 60).

MSFT 50 XBOX: A Case Study

Windows computers are now identifiable as "MSFT 50 XBOX" when they send a DHCP request. This information allows network administrators to tailor DHCP settings specifically for these devices.

Similarly, Android devices are recognized by the DHCP server as "dhcpcd-5.5.6," enabling administrators to configure DHCP options accordingly.

Vendor-Specific DHCP Options

Network administrators can configure the DHCPv4 server to send vendor-specific options to clients with specific Vendor Class Identifiers. When a device joins the network, it sends a DHCPDISCOVER message that includes its Vendor Class Identifier.

If the DHCP server recognizes the identifier, it sends specific DHCP options that apply to that device. For example, a network administrator could configure the DHCP server to provide additional IP addresses or DNS settings for Xbox devices.

Enhanced DHCP Troubleshooting with Wireshark

By using Wireshark to analyze the DHCP process between devices and a DHCP server, network administrators can gain valuable insights into the network traffic. The Vendor Class Identifier is now displayed in Wireshark, making it easier to identify and troubleshoot DHCP issues.