Why is my DHCP server not releasing client address leases?

A. A known problem exists with the Windows 2000 DHCP server that causes the server to ignore a lease release request from a client on another subnet because releasing the lease causes the DHCP server to use its own IP address instead of the client's. This problem occurs if you haven't defined a scope for the DHCP server's primary interfaces local subnet. To work around this problem, create a scope for the local subnet (you don't have to activate it).

You can also manually delete the leases. Perform the following steps:

1. Start the Microsoft Management Console (MMC) DHCP snap-in (Start, Programs, Administrative Tools, DHCP).
2. Select the Scope that contains the leases to be deleted.
3. Select the Address Leases container.
4. Right-click the lease to be deleted and select Delete.
5. Click OK to the confirmation.

End of Article