Multiple users report that the workstations are assigned a 169.254.x.x IP address. What is a possible solution?

When multiple workstations are assigned IP addresses from the 169.254.x.x range, it indicates that they are unable to communicate with a DHCP server to receive an IP address. This range is designated for Automatic Private IP Addressing (APIPA), which is used by devices that cannot find a DHCP server, allowing them to communicate on a local network without an assigned static IP.

Restarting the DHCP server is a potential solution as it may resolve issues such as server misconfiguration, failure, or temporary outages that prevent the workstations from obtaining valid IP addresses. Resetting the DHCP server can refresh its lease assignments and ensure that it properly allocates IP addresses to the devices on the network. By restarting it, the server can also clear any errors or issues that might have arisen, leading to a restoration of functionality.

While changing the network cable, rebooting the workstations, or checking the power supply might resolve specific hardware-related issues, they are less directly connected to the problem of obtaining a DHCP-assigned IP address. Thus, restarting the DHCP server directly addresses the lack of successful communication with the DHCP service, making it the most appropriate solution in this scenario.