DHCPv6 Overview

DHCPv6 offers the capability of automatic allocation of reusable network addresses and additional configuration flexibility.

DHCPv6 has a client-server model, where designated DHCPv6 server hosts allocate network addresses and deliver configuration parameters to dynamically configured hosts. DHCPv6 uses a four-message exchange between client and server: SOLICIT, ADVERTISE, REQUEST, and REPLY.

DHCPv6 identifies a client by its unique identifier and uses Router Advertisement (RA) and IPv6 multicast messages.

The following scalability numbers apply to DHCPv6 relay: