CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

Which option can a DHCP server configure for clients?

1. IP address range

2. Network firewall rules

3. MAC address filtering

4. Encryption standards

The correct answer is: IP address range

A DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server's primary function is to automatically assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network. By configuring an IP address range, the DHCP server can efficiently manage the allocation of IP addresses within a specified range, ensuring that devices can communicate on the network without conflicts. When a client device connects to the network, the DHCP server provides it with a unique IP address from the pre-defined range along with other relevant information like the subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses. This process simplifies network management and minimizes the risk of manual configuration errors. The other options, such as network firewall rules, MAC address filtering, and encryption standards, are not typically managed by a DHCP server. Firewall rules involve security measures controlling traffic entering and leaving a network, MAC address filtering is a method of allowing or blocking devices based on their hardware addresses, and encryption standards relate to securing data transmission. These functions are usually handled by dedicated network devices or software solutions rather than by a DHCP server.