> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.verifone.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.verifone.com/support-us/network-configurations-and-errors/network-configurations.md).

# Network Configurations

This section includes information on what network configurations are and how they can impact a device's functionality.

<details>

<summary>Keywords</summary>

Also called: network settings, IP configuration, DHCP vs static. Search terms: network configuration, IP address, subnet mask, gateway, DNS.

</details>

## What are Network Configurations?

Network Configurations are the settings that let a Verifone device communicate with the internet and outside network.

A terminal connects using either **Wi-Fi** or an **Ethernet** connection, depending on the terminal type. Each connection type is set up in either **DHCP** or **Static** mode, depending on your company's preferred method — most sites use Static for added security.

* **DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol):** automatically assigns IP addresses and other configuration settings — subnet mask, default gateway, DNS servers — to devices on the network.
* **Static:** a permanent setup assigned to a device. Unlike DHCP, the IP address is fixed, using provided IPs, subnet mask, DNS servers, and gateway.

## Network Configuration Fields

| Name            | Description                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       |
| --------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **IP Address**  | A unique numerical label — like a mailing address for your device — that identifies it on a network (like the internet or Wi-Fi) and lets it send and receive data.                                                                                                                               |
| **Subnet Mask** | A number used with an IP address to separate it into network and host portions, telling devices which part identifies the network and which identifies the specific device (host).                                                                                                                |
| **Gateway**     | The IP address of the router on a local network that acts as the exit point, directing traffic from your devices to other networks — most commonly the internet. It's the "doorway" to the outside world, telling devices where to send data not destined for another device on the same network. |
| **DNS1**        | The primary DNS (Domain Name System) server — the main server your device contacts to translate website names (like google.com) into an IP address.                                                                                                                                               |
| **DNS2**        | The secondary DNS server — a backup for DNS1 that keeps internet connectivity working if the first server fails. It's often assigned automatically by your ISP but can be changed manually (e.g. to Google's 8.8.8.8 or Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1) for performance or privacy.                         |

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Which values should I use?**

Source your network configuration values from whoever manages your network — your Level 1 Helpdesk Support, Merchant Services Provider, or the Verifone Helpdesk, depending on your account setup.

Only use the specific values you're given. Incorrect network details will prevent the device from pairing with a point-of-sale station, and transactions will fail.
{% endhint %}


---

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