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 98 or higher for DHCP

1. Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel.

2. Double click on the Network icon in the Control Panel.

3. On the Configuration tab, see if TCP/IP is listed under The following network components are installed in the Network\ dialog window as above.

4. If TCP/IP is listed, proceed with #5. Otherwise, if TCP/IP is not listed:
- Click Add.
- Click Protocol and click Add.

- In the Select Network Protocol dialog window, on the left, under the Manufacturers window, click on Microsoft.

- On the right, under the Network Protocols window, click TCP/IP.
- Click OK.
- TCP/IP should now be listed under The following network components are installed dialog window.
- Click on TCP/IP from The following network components are installed dialog window and click Properties.

5. Click on TCP/IP to highlight it, and click the Properties button.

6.. Click on the IP Address tab.

7. Click on the radio button for Obtain an IP address automatically.

8. Click OK to close the TCP/IP Properties dialog window.

NOTE: A message may prompt you to rename your computer. Under the Identification tab, type in your first and last name in the Computer Name window. Click OK.

9. Click OK to close the Network dialog window.

10. You will now be prompted to restart your machine. Please restart your machine now. After you have restarted, DHCP will be active and you can begin using the network.

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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 Constrol 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.