DHCP May Not Assign a Default Gateway to Windows NT Clients (167049)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.5
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0

This article was previously published under Q167049

SYMPTOMS

If you have configured a domain host configuration protocol (DHCP) server to provide a default gateway by using DHCP option 003 (router), Windows NT DHCP clients on the network receive a valid DHCP lease and all other DHCP lease options except the default gateway.

CAUSE

The DHCP option 003 (router) option was configured with a value that is not on the local subnet.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this problem, configure a valid value for this option. The default gateway for any computer running IP must be on that computer's local subnet.

STATUS

This behavior is by design.

MORE INFORMATION

Client computers running Windows 95 will accept an invalid default gateway and place it in the route table. Windows NT clients check the value they receive; if it is not on the local subnet, they will disregard the value.

NOTE: Windows 2000, Windows 98, and Windows Millenium accept the incorrect gateway address, add it to their routing table and display it.

In addition to the blank default gateway field, Windows NT clients also exhibit odd behaviour when releasing and renewing a lease with an invalid default gateway address. The client will appear to release correctly but will retain its settings and display them. When a renew is attempted, the client fails with a Error: 10065: renewing adapter "xxxxxx". The only way to properly renew the address is to reboot the client.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:5/14/2003
Keywords:kbprb KB167049