Mediacom Online Approved modems are each assigned a unique Internet Protocol (IP) address. Mediacom Online networks use an IP address to identify each computer and modem on the network. In the current world of static IP addresses, your address is assigned and remains yours even if you are not using your computer. However, the assigning of IP addresses has become increasingly cumbersome because the number of computer users outnumbers the supply of IP addresses.

To resolve this issue, network engineers implemented Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). DHCP helps address the growing problem with IP address availability, and prepares network users for the coming Mediacom Online Approved modem. In the DHCP environment, available IP addresses remain in a pool until they are needed. Once assigned, the address stays with that computer for a certain time period and then returns to the pool if not used. This means that more users can be supported with fewer addresses, thus assisting in the implementation of uniform equipment and service requirements for the latest cable Internet service industry standards.