Background: I am trying to connect my MacBook Pro to a business grade network where I do not have access to reboot the server, switches, or router.
Problem: The MacBook Pro (running Snow Leopard upgraded from Leopard) will not obtain an IP address via DHCP and repeatedly self-assigns a 169.xx IP address. I have tried restarting the computer, changing network ports and using different cables. Each time the computer has the same issue. I am able to connect to the same network via a wireless access point with no issue and other PCs (new to the network) are able to obtain an IP address without issue.
Question: Why won't my MacBook Pro obtain an IP address via the ethernet connection? Any suggestions?
Best Answer
If you're running a Snow Leopard Server, you'll need to go to Server Preferences and disable the security firewall so that the computer can access the DHCP on the router. Once that happens, you'll be assigned the correct IP address.
This took me several days and hours to figure this out. It's so frustrating since I don't know if this security feature is overkill if you're behind a NAT router.