Setting up DHCP services is crucial for seamless network management, and Cisco Meraki makes this remarkably simple through its intuitive cloud-based dashboard. Whether you want Meraki to handle IP address assignment directly or relay DHCP requests to an external server, the Meraki GUI provides a clear, guided process.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to implement both a DHCP server and DHCP relay on your Meraki network—no command-line fluency required!
What is DHCP Server vs DHCP Relay?
Before diving in, here’s a quick refresher:
- DHCP Server: Automatically assigns IP addresses and related network settings (like DNS, gateway) to client devices.
- DHCP Relay: Forwards DHCP requests from clients to an external DHCP server on another subnet, allowing centralized IP management.
Prerequisites for Using Meraki’s DHCP Features
- Access to your Cisco Meraki Dashboard with administrative rights.
- A configured network and relevant MX Security Appliance or Meraki SSID.
- An external DHCP server IP address if you plan to use DHCP relay.
Step 1: Log in to Your Meraki Dashboard
Navigate to dashboard.meraki.com and sign in with your credentials. Select the network you want to configure (e.g., your office or branch location).
Step 2: Navigate to DHCP Settings
- On the left-hand sidebar, go to Security & SD-WAN (for MX devices) or Wireless > Access Control (for wireless SSIDs).
- Under Addressing & VLANs, find the section related to DHCP. This differs slightly depending on your device:
- For MX Appliances: Click Addressing & VLANs.
- For Wireless SSIDs: DHCP options appear under Wireless > Access Control or Radio Settings depending on the configuration.
Step 3: Configure DHCP Server on Meraki
If you want Meraki to assign IP addresses directly:
- Under Addressing & VLANs, locate the VLAN or subnet you want to serve DHCP.
- Select Run a DHCP Server.
- Specify the DHCP range by entering the Start IP Address and End IP Address.
- Fill in optional parameters such as Default Gateway, DNS servers, and Lease time.
- Save your settings.
Meraki will now function as the DHCP server for that subnet, automatically distributing IPs and network info.
Step 4: Set Up DHCP Relay on Meraki
If you prefer to have DHCP requests relayed to an external DHCP server:
- In the same Addressing & VLANs page, choose the VLAN for relay.
- Instead of selecting DHCP Server, check Use the following DHCP server:
- Enter the IP address of your external DHCP server.
- Save your changes.
This will forward DHCP requests from clients to the specified server without Meraki issuing IPs itself.
Step 5: Verify Your Setup
After applying settings:
- DHCP Server: Connect a client device to the network and verify it receives an IP within the specified range.
- DHCP Relay: Confirm that the client receives IP settings from the external server using tools like
ipconfig /all(Windows) orifconfig/ip addr(Linux/macOS).
Tips for Optimal DHCP Management on Meraki
- Monitor DHCP leases via Network-wide > Monitor > Clients for visibility.
- Use Address reservations to assign specific IPs to important devices.
- Regularly update your DHCP lease duration based on network dynamics.
- When using DHCP relay, ensure your external DHCP server is reachable and configured to serve the correct subnet.
Conclusion
Implementing DHCP server or relay on your Meraki network through the GUI is surprisingly straightforward, eliminating the need for heavy CLI configurations. With just a few clicks, you have full control over IP management tailored to your organizational needs.
Embrace the simplicity and reliability of Meraki’s cloud-managed DHCP—your network’s IP assignments have never been easier to manage. Happy networking!
