Infocards

Configuring Your Computer for DHCP
Posted on 11/03/06
PDF Available

What's DHCP?

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. Every computer on a network receives a unique address that only that computer may have. This address is called an IP address. As such, in order to successfully connect to our network, your computer must have an IP address associated to it. Both our systems and your computer must know what your computer's IP address is.

This can get a little tricky if things aren't properly configured on both ends. DHCP is a protocol that allows our servers to automatically assign your computer an IP address. That way, it's extremely easy for our servers to keep your computer online! DHCP is a standard method of assigning IP addresses and most networks use this protocol.

Turning DHCP On!

Out-of-the-box, most computers are configured to automatically receive an IP address (e.g. DHCP support is turned on). But, somehow, someway, this setting might get turned off and its possible that a static IP address was assigned to your computer. If our systems think your computer has a different IP address, but your computer doesn't know it, you won't be able to get online. This is why your computer should be properly configured for DHCP.

Simply follow the steps below to properly configure your computer.

For Windows Vista Users
For Windows XP Users
For Mac OS X Users

Configuring Vista for DHCP

Click Start and browse to the Control Panel.
Double-click on Network and Sharing Center and then click Manage Network Connections.
Right-click on Local Area Connection and then select Properties.
In the list of protocols, highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
Click Properties and select Obtain IP address automatically.

For images and detailed step-by-step instructions, download the PDF version of the infocard.

Configuring Windows XP for DHCP

Click on the Start button, and click on Settings, and then on Control Panel.
Double-click on the Network Connections icon. Right-click on Local Area Connection and press Properties.
In the new window, scroll to the bottom of the list. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and press Properties.
In the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties window, make sure the checkbox buttons next to Obtain an IP Address Automatically and Obtain DNS Server Address Automatically are selecfted. Be sure that all IP address fields are blank.
You're done!

Configuring Mac OS X for DHCP

Select System Preferences from the Apple menu at the top left.
Inside the System Preferences folder, select the Network icon.
Verify that the Location section says Automatic and the Configure section says Built-In Ethernet.

* Note: If you are unable to change any settings, please be sure to click on the lock icon in order to unlock the panel before making any changes.
Make sure that the Configure IPv4 box is selected to Using DHCP. The DNS Server box may be left blank.
Finally, click Apply Now to retain these settings, lock the panel if needed, and exit System Preferences. If you would like to change these settings later, you will need Administrative access in Mac OS X.