Router displays MSFT 50, indicating Microsoft Windows 10 client presence

Enhanced DHCP Client-Side Features

Recent advancements in router technology have led to the implementation of enhanced DHCP client-side capabilities. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a widely used network protocol responsible for dynamically assigning IP addresses and other network configuration settings to devices connected to a network. The introduction of new features within the DHCP client has enabled routers to display more detailed information about connected devices, including their operating systems and vendor information.

MSFT 50 XBOX: Identifying Microsoft Windows 10 Clients

One such feature is the ability for routers to display the "Vendor Class Identifier" (VCI) of connected devices. The VCI is a field within the DHCP request packet that allows devices to advertise their operating system and vendor information. In the case of Microsoft Windows 10 clients, the VCI is set to "MSFT 50 XBOX." This value is displayed on routers to indicate the presence of Microsoft Windows 10 devices connected to the network.

Previously, routers would often simply display "MSFT 50" to indicate the presence of Microsoft Windows clients. However, the addition of "XBOX" to the VCI provides further clarification, specifically identifying the devices as Microsoft Windows 10 machines. This distinction is particularly useful in environments with a mix of Windows devices, allowing network administrators to easily identify Windows 10 clients and monitor their network activity accordingly.

Wireshark Analysis: DHCP Interactions in Detail

To gain a deeper understanding of the DHCP process and VCI information exchange, network analysis tools such as Wireshark can be employed. By examining DHCP request and response packets captured using Wireshark, network administrators can observe the VCI values provided by different devices. This detailed analysis provides valuable insights into the operating systems and vendor information of connected devices, enabling more effective network management and troubleshooting.