Purpose and Overview
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network protocol that allows a device to receive IP addressing information automatically. The IP addressing information includes the IP address itself, the subnet mask, the gateway, as well as DNS server information.
JMU Network Services runs DHCP servers that manage all DHCP requests across campus. Devices are typically set to configure their IP addressing information via DHCP without any action from the user. Any device connected to the JMU Data Network, outside of the data centers, should be configured for dynamic or automatic IP address configuration, even those with a DHCP reservation. Devices should not be manually configured with a static IP address or IP addressing information.
For devices that require a specific IP address to operate on the network, customers can request a DHCP reservation. By requesting a DHCP reservation, the DHCP server will detect the device’s MAC address on the network and will assign it a reserved IP address automatically. To request a DHCP reservation for a device, please visit start.jmu.edu [link to start.jmu.edu].
Because DHCP reservations are managed through start.jmu.edu, this service request should be used for troubleshooting an existing DHCP reservation or to submit a bulk DHCP reservation request.
Eligibility and Constraints
DHCP reservations are limited to Faculty, Staff, and Affiliates. Students who have an academic need for a reserved IP address are required to work with a faculty or staff member to facilitate the DHCP reservation request.