Registering Hardware Addresses
What is DHCP?
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a method for configuring Internet Protocol (IP) network interfaces dynamically. A DHCP client does not require the user to configure an IP address, subnet mask, etc, on his computer, but rather receives these data from a DHCP server. It allows for a much easier user setup, more versitile network management, and easier support for mobile computers. DHCP is a standard protocol, defined in RFC 2131.
How is Virginia Tech using DHCP?
Since Fall 1999, DHCP has been used as the default method for configuring user computers in the Virginia Tech residence halls. To use DHCP, a user need only configure his computers to use DHCP, which in many operating systems is a single check-box. The VTNet setup will configure this for users who wish to use it.
Do I need to register?
Any user may register his Ethernet card's hardware or "MAC" address with the DHCP server. (The term "MAC address" is from the Media Access Control protocol of Ethernet, and has nothing to do with the Apple Macintosh.) This registration is required for anyone who would like to use roaming DHCP (public portal) access. It is important to note that CNS does not provide the portals for public access, but rather works with the sponsoring department to manage the IP address assignment method.
To register your Ethernet card for roaming access log in to the MAC address registration web page with your PID and password. Note: as of this writing (11/7/2000), there are few supported campus public portals; however, this is a planned feature, and does require registered Ethernet cards. Eventually there will likely be roaming access in all parts of the Virginia Tech campus, with this service initially available in Torgersen Hall (planned Spring 2001).
Note that the registration process associates your PID to your Ethernet card, so if you change Ethernet cards you will have to change your registration. This can also be done on the MAC address registration web page. At this time there is no mechanism for a non-Virginia Tech affiliate to register his Ethernet cards.
If you have exchanged Ethernet adapters with someone who has already regsitered that adapter, the previous owner may need to unregister the card before you can register it.
Residence Hall Reserved IP address assignment
There is no support for static IP assignments in the residence halls at this time.
How to Find You Hardware Address
