How should I do my DHCP?
How should I do my DHCP?
Hello everyone! For your setup, it's best to use PfSense for managing DHCP since it handles IP assignment centrally. The Cisco switches can remain on their own DHCP servers if needed, but you should configure them accordingly. Your question about using different IPs for switches is a good one—consider assigning unique ranges or using separate DHCP zones. Let me know if you need more details! Regards, Van
Configure subnets on your router, then create VLANs on the switches and router. This might be excessive for a home setup unless you need extra control. What’s the purpose of using separate IP ranges for your switches? Are you enhancing security? Would you like distinct /24 networks?
Set up the router on a stick using two DHCP pools, and everything should work fine. This is what Cisco refers to, though I'm sure PFsense can handle it as well. It seems @Electronics Wizardy might also be interested in this setup.
You want to divide your networks into three categories: guest access, production use, and smart device connections.
Next, I'll create additional networks using the router, either via VLANs or physical connections. After that, configure VLANs on your switches to simplify management. Then establish routing between the subnets as required. Finally, install a DHCP server in each subnet on pfSense.
It seems you're considering increasing your investment for a bigger NIC to simplify things.