The following are the requirements Illinois Institute of Technology has established for issuing a static IP address:
- A server that requires a static IP and hostname such that Users can connect to that server using the given hostname. An example of this would be a public website or a computational server that is used by classes.
- A printer that requires a static IP and hostname so that a User’s device can be configured to connect to it.
- A device that cannot be configured for DHCP and must be configured using a static IP.
- A device that is accessed by a software package that requires that the device have a static IP address in order for its license to function (i.e., License Servers).
- Student organizations that are recognized by the Office of Student Activities and require a registered DNS name for their website.
The following alternatives must be considered before the Office of Technology Services (OTS) will consider issuing a static IP address:
- Using a private IP address (192.168.x.x)
- Using a private IP address on the network device and adding a private IP address to your computer that is on the same subnet to allow the User’s host to communicate with the device. This alternative will reduce the number of public IP addresses used and provide additional security by keeping the device inaccessible via the Internet.
- Using the OTS DHCP-Lookup Site (once available)
- Using a dynamic-DNS service
Dynamic DNS services can allow a User to keep track of their IP address by running a small software application that updates a public DNS registry. Free services can be found by searching for “dynamic DNS free” through Google.
Unacceptable Reasons for Requesting a Static IP Include, but Are Not Limited To, the Following
- Remote Desktop connectivity
- Private servers
- Student machines
In the event that the aforementioned alternatives are not applicable to a User’s situation, a static IP address may be requested through the IIT Network Registration website. Users will be notified within two business days indicating whether a request has been approved or denied. If the request is approved, the User must configure the host for DHCP (if possible). The OTS DHCP server will then assign the same IP address each time the DHCP request is made. The User’s requested hostname will be associated with the assigned IP address.
Unauthorized Assignment of a Static IP Address is Prohibited
Users who violate these standards and enter an IP address on their network device (computer, router, printer, etc) without authorization from OTS shall have their device blocked from the network. All network devices must be configured for DHCP (unless otherwise authorized), even if they are receiving a static IP address from the OTS DHCP server.
If an IP address is discovered to be in use statically, OTS Network Services shall attempt to contact the owner of the device. If OTS was unable to contact the owner or has not received a response within 24 hours of their attempted communication, the device will be blocked from the network until the owner contacts Network Services through the OTS Support Desk.
The IP address of a User’s device can be found by logging in to the IIT Network Registration website using the appropriate credentials (i.e., Portal username and password). A list of registered machines, MAC address, and IP addresses in use will be displayed.