IP Address Management Infrastructure Modernization
Upgrading UIC’s DNS & DHCP Infrastructure
UIC Technology Solutions is taking a key step in modernizing UIC’s Network Address Management infrastructure. Last year, Technology Solutions began a project to replace our legacy DNS and DHCP servers and applications which rely on a collection of custom, outdated scripts, with Efficient IP DNS and DHCP servers.
What is DNS and DHCP? Heading link
The Domain Name System (DNS) is the hierarchical and decentralized naming system used to identify computers, services, and other resources reachable through the Internet or other Internet Protocol networks.
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a client/server protocol that automatically provides an Internet Protocol (IP) host with its IP address and other related configuration information such as the subnet mask and default gateway.
Benefits & Risks Heading link
Benefits
- This project will improve the stability, security, and reliability of our DNS Infrastructure.
- This replacement will support new features, such as IPv6, improved zone delegation, and improved address assignment, as well as support API-based access and updates.
- The new appliances will also support enhanced reporting and security with the NetChange module, replacing NetPeek.
Risks
- Most units will not need to take action, and there should be minimal to no effects on IT operations.
Timeline Heading link
A project that started in March 2021, Technology Solutions performed an initial data transfer in January of 2022, and we are expecting to transition to the new solution by October 10, 2022.
EfficientIP Webinars Heading link
Technology Solutions will be hosting two informational sessions on EfficientIP. Members of the IT@UIC Community that manage DNS and DHCP records are encouraged to attend. Sessions will be recorded and posted in the IT@UIC Community Teams. Register below.
EfficientIP Webinars Heading link
Introduction to EfficientIP and DNS/DHCP upgrades at UIC
EfficientIP Training Webinar
Have questions? Heading link
For questions about this upgrade, please contact Matthew Patterson, Linux Team Manager at mpatte2@uic.edu.