The purpose of the CSB having a DHCP server is to work around uncooperative routers. It is rarely needed.

Basically, a DHCP server manages the IP address assignments for all the devices on your network. When a computer joins your network, the DHCP server gives it an IP address. This is called a “lease”. A lease is given for a particular amount of time, typically 24 hours. That means that that lease (on an IP address) will be reserved for 24 hours. If the computer is still on line after 24 hours, the lease is automatically renewed. Otherwise, it is terminated, and the reserved IP address is released back into the pool.

Normally, using the CSB DHCP server is not necessary. However, some ISP provided routers come with the ability to change DNS servers purposely disabled and locked onto the ISP's own DNS servers. They do this for a couple of reasons. Most will claim it is for tech support purposes. But capturing your usage habits is valuable to them as it provides a hidden revenue stream. If you use another DNS provider or use a CSB device, they lose the data from you they would have otherwise sold. You're not just a customer, you're also a commodity.

For our purposes, we probably want to configure your DHCP server to mimic your routers DHCP server.

Log into your router, locate the DHCP settings, and write down the following information. Screenshots are okay too.

1. Gateway IP Address (same as router)
2. Range of IP addresses to hand out. This is also called a “pool” or “dynamic” or some combination of those words. There will be a beginning IP address and an ending IP address. For example, the beginning address might be 192.168.1.151 and the ending IP address night be 192.168.2.251.
3. Also write down any static IP leases.
4. Leave your router screen open.

Next, open a new tab in your browser and log into your black, click on Settings in the left hand sidebar, then click on the DHCP tab at the top.

1. Check the box that says DHCP server enabled.
2. Add the beginning and end IP addresses for the DHCP pool of addresses to hand out.
3. Add any STATIC addresses you may have. You may not have any. Static IP Addresses are associated to MAC addresses, so the important things are the MAC address and the IP address. Don't worry about the Hostname unless you already know what it is. Click the green + (plus) bottom to add the static address.

Lastly, go back to your router screen.

1. Disable DHCP on the router and click on Save or Apply. Only 1 DHCP service can be run on a local network, and we'll be using the DHCP server on the CSB.

DHCP will then running on your CSB and handling all IP address assignments.

You will probably need to reboot some devices on your network for them to pick up the new DHCP server.

Important: If you are having trouble with DHCP, please visit this page, https://cybersitter.black/support/, and provide the information asked for. We have a large library of router documentation and can provide assistance..