Cluster may fail if IP address used from DHCP server

If a server runs Microsoft Cluster Server and the installed network adapters obtain IP addresses from a DHCP server, the ability to access the cluster may be compromised.

Microsoft Cluster Server expects the primary address on configured network cards to remain available. If a leased address expires and cannot be renewed, network connectivity may be lost. As a result, failures may occur within the cluster.

To prevent IP address failure and other problems, use a static IP address for network adapters installed in cluster nodes. Static addresses will ensure availability of critical IP addresses and will further ensure high availability of important resources.