How to Configure Dnsmasq for Your Local Network

A Look Inside the Dnsmasq Configuration File

The ‘Ubuntu System Administration Guide’ provides a clear, annotated example of a `dnsmasq.conf` file, making it easy to understand how to configure the service for your specific needs.

Key Configuration Options

• `interface`: Specifies which network interface `dnsmasq` should listen on (e.g., your private network card).
• `dhcp-range`: Defines the range of IP addresses to be handed out to clients (e.g., `10.33.33.10,10.33.33.200,12h`).
• `dhcp-option=3,…`: Sets the default gateway (your router’s IP).
• `dhcp-option=6,…`: Sets the DNS server address.
• `dhcp-host=…`: Allows you to assign a static, permanent IP address to a specific device based on its MAC address.

By editing this single file, you can take full control of your local network’s IP and DNS configuration.

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This post is based from content of the book Ubuntu System adminstration guide. And the book can be found here https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mattias-Hemmingsson/author/B0FF5CQX13