I have a DIR-825, but this is a general question about DHCP reservation. I have about 20 devices on my network. When I look at the device list under "network settings," the "hostname" for the computers are listed as their computer names, but I have a bunch of other devices listed as "unknown." These are my TV, Blu-ray player, etc. I can reserve an IP address in the DHCP section for each of them and type in the proper name. That way, I can see all my devices listed by a real name (not "unknown"). This allows me to identify any rogue devices that might sneak onto the network since they would be in the dynamically assigned section.
Questions:
Is it problematic to do DHCP reserving as a general practice?
When I reserve the DHCP address for a device, will the router automatically assign the new reserved IP address when it sees that particular macid coming online? I don't have to set anything on the device itself, right (except for the device to receive an IP address automatically, which is usually the default)?
I have a printer that I have currently assigned a Static IP address (inside the printer). I can put this address outside the DHCP range or I can put it inside the DHCP range but reserve the address. Is there any difference or preference?
My configuration is:
Cable modem -> DIR-825 router -> dlink 24-port gigabit switch
then off the 24-port switch are:
DAP-1353 wireless access point extender
5-port dlink gigabit switch
I reserved an IP address for the 1353. I also gave it a separate ssid. Anything special I need to do with the 2 switches? Ok, I'm really showing my ignorance now.
Thanks!