Isolate the Problem to the Client or Server

Perform the following actions to isolate the problem to either the client or the server machine.

Problem

The DHCP server machine is not working.

Verification: Log in to another machine on the same subnet as the client, and use the ping command to try to reach the server.

Solution: Diagnose the problem on the server machine.

Problem

The DHCP server is not running.

Verification: Log in to the server and enter the command:

ps -ef | grep dhcp

Solution:

1. Stop and restart the DHCP server.

2. Enter the command:

   /etc/init.d/dhcp stop

3. Wait about 10 seconds. Then enter the command:

   /etc/init.d/dhcp start

Problem

The boot process hangs during DHCP.

Verification: The interface is marked primary, but no valid DHCP transaction has occurred.

Solution: Interrupt DHCP by typing control-C. The boot continues.

Although booting continues, the host may be incorrectly configured for the networks to which it is attached.