The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) provides dynamically assigned Internet Protocol (IP) addresses and other configuration data to computers and devices at UVM.
When your computer connects to an IP network at UVM, it is assigned an IP address. This happens over a protocol called DHCP. DHCP is used both in Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) and Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) networks at UVM.
In general, users do not need to worry about DHCP as it is something that "just happens" behind the scenes. However, there are some cases where users may need to become aware of DHCP:
- Use of some wired networks may require registration of the computer or device using our NetReg registration system.
- IP addresses for servers and some devices (e.g. for networked printers, cameras) that must remain the same (static) should be requested from dhcp@uvm.edu.
Features
- Provides an IP address to computers and devices on demand and without any user interaction.
- Can offer additional or alternate configuration information based on subnetwork location or individual device allowing many features from alternate name services to network booting of devices.
- Provides the foundation for associating computers and devices with UVM NetIDs for security purposes using the NetReg system.
Get Started
- For normal use, nothing is required. Plug into an ethernet connection and your device will receive a valid address for your location.
- For areas requiring registration, your device will be given a temporary, restricted IP that directs any web browser usage to the registration page where a UVM NetID will be required. Once registered, the device will receive a valid IP for as long as the registration lasts.
- For server or special devices, the address must remain the same at all times. These so called static addresses can be requested and assigned by ETS staff by emailing the dhcp@uvm.edu account.
- Devices that need to be registered, but only for a limited time (e.g. game consoles), you can self register at https://go.uvm.edu/playonline
For IT Professionals
Any device that requires a long term, static address (e.g. copier, printer, webcam, drive storage array, windows or linux server, test or monitoring equipment, etc.) will require registration by ETS staff. Contact us by email at dhcp@uvm.edu to request assistance with this registration.
At a minimum we'll need two things:
- The media access control address (MAC address) of the device or computer
- Confirmation of the IP subnet. This can be found by plugging an ethernet equipped laptop into the jack and obtaining a dynamic address via DHCP. Send the IP it receives along with the request.
Our default duration for static leases are usually: Printers (10 years), Copiers (contract length, typically 4 years), Computers (5 years), Servers and Special Devices (10 years). Longer terms can be provided, but not infinite.