Open Transport is Apple's communications software for Ethernet access. It allows an on-campus Macintosh to become a full-fledged SUNet node with its own IP address. Open Transport is a standard part of Mac OS 9.x

With Open Transport in place you can use software such as Eudora to read and reply to electronic mail while you are simultaneously connected to the Internet via a news reader or a web browser. You can use Samson to run multiple communication sessions. You can share files from other Macs and print to networked printers.

Top of Page

You must register your Ethernet device's hardware address before your computer can communicate over SUNet.

Note: If you already know your hardware Ethernet address and have provided it to your Local Network Administrator or Resident Computer Coordinator, you can skip these steps.

1. Under the Apple menu, open TCP/IP in the Control Panels folder.

2. Click the Info button.

   

3. Write down the displayed Hardware Address and provide it to your Local Network Administrator or Resident Computer Coordinator. Students need to register their connections on-line at the Rescomp Web site.

Your Macintosh will not be able to access the Internet or use software such as Samson until your RCC or LNA receives your connection information and activates an account for you.

Top of Page

Once you have registered your computer for network access, you can follow these steps to complete the configuration:

From the Control Panels option in the Apple menu, select the TCP/IP Control Panel.

1. In the Connect via field, select Ethernet.

2. In the Configure field, select Using DHCP Server.

3. If you have any other information filled in the boxes, delete it. These fields will be configured automatically when you first establish your connection to the network.

4. Close the Control Panel and click Save

Open Transport is now configured.

Top of Page

You can contact the Stanford IT Help Desk via HelpSU for consulting help.

Apple's Web site also contains helpful tips for troubleshooting Open Transport.

For additional help, contact your dormitory's Resident Computer Coordinator (RCC) or your department's Local Network Administrator (LNA) or Expert Partner.

Top of Page