It is recommended to setup DHCP and DNS on SBS

By default, many routers or firewalls are setup as DHCP and DNS server. If you are running a Small Business Server, we recommend setup DHCP and DNS on the SBS, perhaps WINS too.

Case 1: The client is running SBS 2003 with Exchange. They can receive but send emails.

Cause and solution: The SBS DNS points to the ISP DNS. Install DNS on the SBS.

Case 2: The client is running Exchange 2003. They find some sent emails won’t reach to the destination or stay in the queue and drop later.

Cause and solution: The server DNS points the router IP as DNS server. Point the DNS to the SBS DNS.

Case 3: Some workstations cannot receive IP address from the DHCP server.

Cause and solution: The DHCP is running on a router. Disable the DHCP on the router and enable it on the SBS.

Case 4: The Microsoft VPN client is assigned 169.254.x.x IP instead of the LAN IP.

Cause and solution: The Microsoft RRAS doesn’t integrate with the router DHCP. Install DHCP on the SBS or use IP Address Pool.

Case 5: The company just setup VoIP system. The IP phones need DHCP assign option 156 to find the IP phone server and synchronize time with your time server using option 042 or 004. They can't create these potions on the Linksys router.

Solution: Install DHCP on the SBS and assign/create DHCP option 004, 042 and 156.

Case 6: The client installed SBS using the same domain name of the web site hosted by their ISP. They can't access the web site internally.

Cause and solution: Install DNS on the SBS and create  A record on the DNS pointing to the web site IP address.

Case 7: The company hosts a few web sites on their SBS. They can access the web sites from outside but not inside.

Cause and solution: The router doesn't have loopback feature so that you can't access the web sites internally. Install DNS on the SBS and create an internal DNS zone matching web sites name and IP address.

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