Information Technology Services: Telecommunications

Getting Started with DHCP in the Classroom

Version 1 7/30/03
Revised 8/7/03
Revised 8/12/03

What is DHCP and why would I use it in the classroom?

DHCP is an acronym for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol.

DHCP allows the assignment of IP addresses dynamically. By using DHCP you can easily bring your laptop or computer to a classroom on campus that has no installed technology.

Where is DHCP available?

The DHCP service is available in the Lecture Center area on the podium. It is also available on the main campus in the classrooms that are scheduled by the Registrar’s Office, the downtown campus and east campus. Please click here to view a list of the classrooms (classrooms on Web).

What do I have to do to get started?

Register with DHCP PRIOR to your class, in order to use the service.

Note: This is important, since the registration process takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.

  1. Activate your account on the Information Technology Services (ITS) Unix Cluster. You can do this on the web by going to Password Set/Reset
  2. You will need your SSN or your Albany ID and your PIN to activate your account. Your Albany ID is the ID that you use to log into the Human Resources leave accrual system. Your PIN was sent to your home address in a letter from Chief Information Officer, Christine Haile. If you do not have your PIN, please contact the ITS Help Desk at 442-3700.
  3. Register your laptop or computer with DHCP on the web by going to http://netreg.albany.edu. You may perform the registration from your office or from the classroom in which you are teaching.
  4. Document your current IP Address and Subnet mask to use for reference when returning to your native settings. Click here for instructions on obtaining these settings.

    Please print out this page and record your network settings in the spaces provided below.

    Original IP Number________________
    Original Subnet mask_________________
    Default Gateway (For Windows XP, 2000 only)________________
    You will need these when you return to your office. A document is available to tell you how to restore your network settings.

    NOTE — You can either register in the lecture center or classroom where you will use the laptop or computer or you can go to one of the following and get help registering: the Technology Coordinator in your School or College, ITS HelpDesk or the ITS Audiovisual group (A/V). If you go to one of the help sites you will need to know the MAC address of your computer.

What else do I need to do?

The podiums in the lecture centers and the smart classrooms are equipped with on-board PCs, but if you want to use your laptop to access materials on the network, you can bring it to the lecture centers. There are instructions at the podium. There is also an ethernet cable at the podium. If the cable is missing the A/V office in LC-10 has extras and will replace it.

In the classrooms with no installed technology podium, you will need to bring an ethernet cable. Ethernet cables are sold in the University Bookstore and Staples. You will also need to reserve a projector if the classroom you are using does not have one permanently installed. You can do that by contacting the A/V office at 442-3647 to make a reservation and to arrange a time for you to pick-up the equipment.

How do I know which data jack to use?

In the Lecture Centers and smart classroom there are instructions at the podium. In the classrooms the active jack will be labeled with a gold star.

What do I need to do when I’m done with my class?

If you borrowed a projector from A/V you will need to return it. When you return to your office you will need to restore the original configuration settings on your laptop or computer. If you need help with this contact the technology coordinator for your school or college.

Is there other operational information I need to know about the DHCP service?

You need only to register once in each Building (subnet) of the network.

Your registration will be good for 6 months from last date of use.

Who do I call if I have problems?

You can contact the ITS Help Desk or your Technology Coordinator.

IMPORTANT — Remember that you need to register with the DHCP prior to your class.





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