How does DHCP lease time influence roaming behavior in campus Wi-Fi networks?

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How does DHCP lease time influence roaming behavior in campus Wi-Fi networks?

Asked on Nov 04, 2025

Answer

DHCP lease time plays a crucial role in managing IP address allocation and renewal, which can impact roaming behavior in campus Wi-Fi networks by affecting how quickly devices can reconnect to the network when moving between access points. A shorter lease time can facilitate quicker IP address reassignment, while a longer lease time may reduce DHCP server load but potentially delay IP address updates during roaming.

Example Concept: In a campus Wi-Fi network, DHCP lease time determines the duration a device retains its IP address. A shorter lease time can help devices quickly obtain a new IP address when moving between different access points, minimizing connectivity interruptions. Conversely, longer lease times might lead to delays in IP address updates, causing temporary connectivity issues as devices roam. Balancing lease time is essential to ensure efficient IP address management and seamless roaming.

Additional Comment:

Short lease times can increase DHCP server load due to more frequent renewals.
Long lease times may lead to IP address exhaustion if not managed properly.
Consider network size and device mobility patterns when setting lease times.
Monitor DHCP logs to optimize lease time settings for roaming efficiency.

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