On April 24, after much preparation and testing, LBLnet migrated from a Windows-based to a UNIX-based DHCP server and implemented Dynamic DNS. The new server keeps track of DHCP "leases" from a pool of 9,000 network address spanning 150 different subnets, and it has proven to be extremely stable. Service was interrupted for less than one minute during the transition. The new DHCP system offers several advantages to users, especially those who run MacOS, Linux, or another non-Windows
operating system. For the first time, "reverse lookups" function properly for every computer using DHCP. In addition, LBLnet is in a better position to monitor the usage of addresses and adjust the size of DHCP scopes as needed.

LBLnet has learned of few problems in connection with the new system. One issue which did arise concerns the new DHCP subdomain "dhcp.lbl.gov," which replaced "wins.lbl.gov" -- a detail omitted from articles and emails describing the transition. This change affected a small number of systems which were configured to expect the older subdomain.

LBLnet wishes to thank its users for their patience and cooperation during the upgrade process. For information concerning the DHCP upgrade, or any other network-related issue, please call X4559.