Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network protocol that automatically assigns a unique IP address to each device that connects to the network (wired or wireless). With DHCP, there is no need to manually assign IP addresses to new devices. For wired connections, your device will need to be registered before it will be allowed to connect to the University's data network. The link to register your device for DHCP is below. OIT has enabled DHCP services across the U of M network including the residence halls.
DHCP provides a number of benefits for the University community:
- Users no longer need to manually configure their IP address.
- Allows users to roam throughout the campus with their devices without having to reconfigure them.
- DHCP works in the same for both wired and wireless connections, which means desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones can all connect to the network at the same time.
Any computer that is already network-enabled can be registered: Register for DHCP.