DHCP for Windows

By setting up your computer to use DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), the IP address and other network information needed to successfully connect your computer to Caltech's network and for you to use the Internet will be automatically provided by a DHCP server.

Notes about DHCP

• The IP address and other network information provided to your computer through DHCP are not permanent; they will change.
• Do not regard any IP address that your computer obtained through DHCP as a static IP address.
• If DHCP does not meet your needs and you need a static IPaddress, information about Caltech IP Address Guide is available, including how to request a Static IP Address and what criteria you must meet.
• If you're not sure whether to use DHCP or a Static IP Address, please try using DHCP first; you can always request a Static IP Address later if it turns out that DHCP doesn't meet your needs.

The following instructions should be used to configure your computer to use DHCP if you are connecting your computer to a CITnet network port on campus, or if you are configuring your home computer as a customer of the Caltech/Charter Cable Modem Service.

DHCP for Windows 8 and Windows 10

1. From the Windows Desktop, press the Windows key + X on the keyboard to open the Power User menu
2. Select Network Connections
3. You should see your network connections. Double-click the active network connection
4. On the network connection status window, click the Properties button
5. Click on the Internet Protocol Version 4 option and click the Properties button
6. To enable DHCP, make sure Obtain an IP address automatically is selected, as well as Obtain DNS server address automatically

DHCP for Windows 7 and Vista

1. Open the Control Panel and select Network and Sharing Center
2. In the View your active networks section, click Local Area Connection
3. In the Local Area Connection Status window, click Properties
4. Highlight the Internet Protocol Version 4 option and click Properties
5. To enable DHCP, make sure Obtain an IP address automatically is selected, as well as Obtain DNS server address automatically

1. Go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
2. Under Internet and Network, select Network.
3. Change the Show pop-up option to Built-in Ethernet.
4. For Location, choose Automatic (or give this connection a name)
5. For Show, Select Built-in Ethernet
6. Select the TCP/IP tab
7. Set Configure to Using DHCP (an IP address starting with 131.215. should appear).
8. Click the Apply Now button, then quit the System Preferences application.