All computers on the campus network should be set up to get their network address automatically from our central servers by using the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). Using DHCP is the default configuration for all modern operating systems.
If you are setting up your computer to use a static network address, for machines in a fixed location, you will also need to discover your MAC address and register the machine. A MAC address is a 12 digit number unique to your network card, see the MAC Address page for more specific information. To register a machine for a fixed location ask your schools computing officer to register your machine.
Machines with a private network address will automatically use the transparent proxy service to access the internet, however some applications may still need to use the original proxy servers, full details are on the Proxy page.
For specific instructions for wired and wireless connections see the connect web site.
Valid IP addresses start with 128.240 or 10. If your IP address is 0.0.0.0 then be patient, the DHCP servers have not responded yet. If your IP address starts with 169.254 this is the default address and your machine failed to be assigned an address from the central servers, check your registration and try again. It can take up to 20 minutes for a machine registration to get to the DHCP servers.
If you are having problems check your machine is using DHCP to assign your IP address, select the interface in the Network Connections window and choose Change settings of this connection. In the Local Area Connection Properties window select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) then the Properties button and make sure Obtain an IP address automatically is selected.