Frequently Asked Questions - Cisco DPC User Manual

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How many Ethernet network devices can I connect?
A. Your residential gateway uses has an integrated Dynamic Host Configuration
Protocol (DHCP) to automatically issue IP addresses to devices as they are
connected to your home network.
The theoretical maximum number of devices supported by your residential gateway
is 253. These addresses are assigned to all connected devices, wired (Ethernet) as
well as wireless. Typically, the number of devices connected should be a much
lower number.
The residential gateway can support several Ethernet devices by connecting them
directly to the Ethernet ports on the back panel or using external multi-port Ethernet
switches (purchased separately).
Contact your service provider for more information on the maximum number of
Ethernet network devices to connect to your residential gateway to maintain optimal
network performance.
Q. What are the wiring requirements for Ethernet networking?
A. A number of factors can impact the practical limit of the network. Although the
residential gateway is designed to support several Ethernet network devices, it is
important to view the characteristics of the entire network and not just each
individual node.
The theoretical distance between two 10/100BASE-T CAT-5 Ethernet hubs is 382 feet
(100 meters). Contact your service provider or consult the documentation for your
Ethernet network devices for more information.
Note: We recommend that you use CAT-5 Ethernet cables.
Q. Where is the best location for my Ethernet network devices?
A. You should work with your service provider to choose the best location for your
Ethernet network devices. Consider these recommendations:
Location of two-way cable outlets
Distance of the Ethernet network devices from the residential gateway
Location of computers and other equipment from AC power outlets
Ease of running Ethernet cable to the Ethernet network devices
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