Network Configuration

The Birch appliance uses its network interfaces to communicate with routers on the local network and with the cloud over the internet. Proper network configuration ensures reliable connectivity for both.

Default network behavior

During initial setup, the appliance:

• Detects all physical Ethernet interfaces
• Enables DHCP on each interface
• Assigns fallback static IPs if no DHCP server responds

The fallback IPs follow a predictable pattern:

• Interface 1: 192.168.201.100
• Interface 2: 192.168.202.100
• Interface 3: 192.168.203.100
• And so on…

Tip

Fallback IPs are only used when DHCP fails. If you’re connecting the appliance directly to a laptop for initial configuration, these fallback addresses let you reach the appliance without a DHCP server.

Configuring an interface

1. Open the admin panel and scroll to the Network section.

2. Locate the interface you want to configure. Each interface shows its name, MAC address, and current IP assignment.

3. Choose DHCP or Static:

   • DHCP — The interface requests an IP from the network’s DHCP server. This is the default and recommended for most setups.
   • Static — Manually assign an IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS servers.

4. For static configuration, enter:

   • IP Address — The desired IP for this interface
   • Subnet Mask — Typically 255.255.255.0 for a /24 network
   • Gateway — The network gateway (required for internet access)
   • DNS Servers — One or more DNS servers

5. Save the configuration — Changes take effect immediately. The interface may briefly disconnect while applying new settings.

Verifying connectivity

After configuring network interfaces:

1. Check interface status in the admin panel — each interface shows its connection state.
2. Verify internet access — The Organization section’s sign-in flow requires internet. If sign-in works, internet is available.
3. Verify router reachability — Once routers are added (in a later step), Birch will show their connection status.