STEP #1: Computer Requirements

See what requirements are needed for your Macintosh or Windows-based PC computer desktop or laptop.

STEP #2: Network Jacks in Vanderbilt Hall

There is only one active jack in each dorm room at all times. Normally, it is the lower left port on the jack plate. Make sure that you are using the correct CAT5e cable. Students sometimes use the incorrect cable, such as a phone jack, which will not work.

If you are having problems with your jack, please contact the Student Computing Support Desk by filling out an online form. Include a brief message of the issue, your full name, your eCommons username and HUID, your jack plate number, your Vanderbilt room number, and your contact phone number. We will contact you.

STEP #3: Configuring Your Windows-Based or Macintosh-Based Computer

Begin by proceeding with the following configuration steps for your computer.

Configuring Your PC Running Windows XP and higher for DHCP

1. Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel.

2. Double click on the Network Connections icon in the Control Panel. Right click on the ethernet card connection. (It may say Local Area Connection.) Highlight Properties.

3. On the General tab, highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) listed under This connection uses the following items: in the Local Area Connections Properties dialog window as above.

4. Click the Properties button.

5. Click on General tab in the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties dialog box. Make sure that the selection buttons for both Obtain an IP address automaticall and Obtain DNS Server automatically are enabled. Click OK.

6. Click OK again to close out remaining dialog boxes.

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Configuring Your Macintosh (OS X) for DHCP

1. Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences. Select the Network icon.

2. Click on the pull-down menu Show: and select Network Port Configurations.

3. Check off and highlight Built-in Configurations and click Apply Now.

4. Click on the pull-down menu Show: and select Built-in Ethernet. Select Using DHCP in the Configure IPV4 pull-down menu. Click on the Renew DHCP Lease if you are not receiving an IP address. You should see a number in the format of 10.0 as the IP address. Click on Apply Now.



NOTE: If you are having problems, please contact the Student Computing Support Desk by filling out an online form. Include a brief message of the issue, your full name, your eCommons username and HUID, your jack plate number, your Vanderbilt room number, and your contact phone number. We will contact you.