Quiz Entry - updated: 2026.07.14
Which device types need predictable static addresses versus dynamic DHCP addresses in a structured plan?
End-user clients normally use DHCP; servers, peripherals, intermediary devices, and gateways should have predictable static addresses.
| Device type | Addressing approach |
|---|---|
| End-user clients (PCs, phones) | DHCP — reduces errors and admin burden (IPv6 clients can use DHCPv6 or SLAAC) |
| Servers and peripherals | Static, predictable addresses so services are always reachable |
| Internet-accessible servers | Static public addresses, usually reached via NAT |
| Intermediary devices (switches, APs) | Static, for management, monitoring, and security |
| Gateway (router/firewall) | Static — same position in every subnet (e.g. always .1) |
Why it matters: anything other devices must find reliably (gateways, servers, infrastructure) needs a fixed address; bulk clients are best handed addresses automatically to scale management.
Go deeper:
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (Wikipedia) — how clients lease addresses automatically.- IP address assignment — static vs dynamic (Wikipedia) — when a fixed address is needed versus a leased one.