Why Is Basic Network Information Needed - Dell PowerConnect 8024 User Configuration Manual

Table 7-1. Basic Network Information (Continued)
Feature
Default Gateway
DHCP Client
Domain Name System
(DNS) Server
Default Domain Name
Host Name Mapping
Additionally, this chapter describes how to view host name-to-IP address
mappings that have been dynamically learned by the system.

Why Is Basic Network Information Needed?

PowerConnect 8000-series and 8100-series switches are layer 2/3 managed
switches. To manage the switch remotely by using a web browser or Telnet
client, the switch must have an IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.
You must also configure a username and password to be able to log into the
switch from a remote host. For information about configuring users, see
"Configuring Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting" on page 177. If
you manage the switch only by using a console connection, configuring an IP
address and user is not required.
NOTE:
The configuration example in this chapter includes commands to create
an administrative user with read/write access.
Configuring the DNS information, default domain name, and host name
mapping help the switch identify and locate other devices on the network and
on the Internet. For example, to upgrade the switch software by using a TFTP
120
Setting Basic Network Information
Description
Typically a router interface that is directly connected to
the switch and is in the same subnet. The switch sends
IP packets to the default gateway when it does not
recognize the destination IP address in a packet.
Requests network information from a DHCP server on
the network.
Translates hostnames into IP addresses. The server
maintains a domain name databases and their
corresponding IP addresses.
Identifies your network, such as dell.com. If you enter a
hostname and do not include the domain name
information, the default domain name is automatically
appended to the hostname.
Allows you to statically map an IP address to a
hostname.