Abstract: Provided is a method for assigning a domain host configuration protocol (DHCP) server from a list of available DHCP servers based upon user selected criteria. When a network router receives a request for an IP address from a computer, or “client,” connected to a network, the request is analyzed for information related to both the client and the available DHCP servers. The analysis may be based upon a number of factors such as the number of previous requests to a particular DHCP server and the proximity of the servers to the computer requesting the IP address. Once the router determines an appropriate DHCP server for a particular IP address request, the client request is forwarded to that DHCP server. The process is completely transparent to both the requesting client and to the selected DHCP server.

Abstract: Provided is a method for assigning a domain host configuration protocol (DHCP) server from a list of available DHCP servers based upon user selected criteria. When a network router receives a request for an IP address from a computer, or “client,” connected to a network, the request is analyzed for information related to both the client and the available DHCP servers. The analysis may be based upon a number of factors such as the number of previous requests to a particular DHCP server and the proximity of the servers to the computer requesting the IP address. Once the router determines an appropriate DHCP server for a particular IP address request, the client request is forwarded to that DHCP server. The process is completely transparent to both the requesting client and to the selected DHCP server.

Abstract: Provided is a method for centrally assigning branch specific network addresses in a domain host control protocol (DHCP) environment. A local router receives requests for IP address assignment from a computing device at one location and forwards the request to a centralized DHCP (CDHCP) server at a different location. The CDHCP server evaluates information associated with the request to determine the location of the requesting computer and assigns an IP address based upon the location. The CDCHP server correlates location specific data to the IP address entry. In this manner, a centralized DHCP server is able to administer IP address for multiple locations and assign location specific data to the requesting computer. The determination of a location of a requesting computer is based on information such as a reverse look-up of the originating signal and analysis of network traffic. The disclosed technology provides centralized control of a networking infrastructure.