Mac not registering hostname on Windows DHCP server

Question

I work for a company who is heavy Windows, but we have a few Macs for our graphics department.  The problem is that a few of the Macs, though not all, don't register a host name with the Windows DHCP server.  I've compared the network and share settings between those that have a host name and those that don't and I don't see any glaring differences.  What would make a Mac not give its host name to the DHCP server?

Answer 1

WIth DHCP, there is really nothing to configure. If the Relay Agent/IP Helper is pointing to it, and the VLAN subnet exactly matches the scope subnet, then it should just work.
What I've seen in the VLAN config is either a static route back to the subnet the DHCP server itself is sitting on is not configured or incorrectly configured, or there are ports blocked (need UDP, too, since that's what DHCP uses to pass the OFFER), and
other necessary ports are opened, then it should just work.
Sometimes NIC teaming on the DHCP server will cause it. Not sure. Microsoft doesn't support teaming prior to Windwos 2012, but it doesn't mean that it doesn't work. Don't get me wrong, teaming works nicely, but they just don't support it because they never
certified the drivers, that's all.
The issues I've seen with DHCP relays and VLANs in the forums are usually based on misconfigs in the VLAN or ports blocked. Sometimes we'll refer to call Microsoft Support for specific, hands-on assistance. And searching the threads, from what
I've found that if they did call support, they've never posted back what the problem was based on or the resolution. I can post a couple of them for you to read through, but there were never any response with the actual resolution.
If you like, you also have the option to contact Microsoft Support. Here's a list of phone numbers if you choose this option:
http://support.microsoft.com/contactus/
Ace Fekay
MVP, MCT, MCITP/EA, MCTS Windows 2008/R2 & Exchange 2007, Exchange 2010 EA, MCSE & MCSA 2003/2000, MCSA Messaging 2003
Microsoft Certified Trainer
Microsoft MVP - Directory Services
Technical Blogs & Videos: http://www.delawarecountycomputerconsulting.com/
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