Configuring a computer to use DHCP
DHCP is a protocol that allows a computer to obtain its IP address from a DHCP server on a network when the computer
connects to the network. This type of IP address is called a
dynamically assigned
IP address because it can change when
the computer disconnects from the network and later re-connects.
The satellite modem incorporates a DHCP server (always enabled) to assign IP addresses to computers that connect to
it. The modem can assign
private
IP addresses or
public IP addresses
, depending on the service plan purchased by the
satellite modem customer.
In most cases, DCHP should be enabled on a computer or computers that connect to the satellite modem so the computer(s)
can ask for and receive an IP address (private or public) from the satellite modem DHCP server.
DHCP should be disabled on your PC if you have purchased a service plan with a public IP address(es) and want to use
a public IP address.
The following sections explain how to configure computers with various operating systems to use DHCP in the event
that DHCP is disabled on the computer. To enable DHCP, use the instructions for your specific computer operating
system.
If you are using the satellite modem as part of a network, you should have already installed either an Ethernet hub or a
wireless base station and NICs in each computer on the LAN. If necessary, you should have also connected the computers
to the Ethernet hub with an Ethernet cable. See
Home networking
on page 69 for more information.
Configuring Windows Vista to use DHCP
This section explains how to configure your computer to use DHCP if your computer operating system is Microsoft
Windows Vista.
1.
From the Windows desktop, select
Start
Settings
Network Connections
.
A list of network adapters appears as shown in
Figure 30: Network connections – Windows Vista
on page 51. The
Local Area Connection-NIC Card icon
must
appear under the LAN or High-Speed Internet heading. If it does not,
the network is not installed correctly.
Figure 30: Network connections – Windows Vista
Note:
If a red X appears next to the Local Area Connection icon, check your connections. You cannot
successfully configure your system if the red X is present.
51
Appendix A
HN9000 Satellite Modem User Guide –
1037577-0001 Rev. B
Computer settings
