Hello, I have a question: Has anyone encountered a situation where a static IP address on a device changed unexpectedly? Personally, I didn't think it was possible, but it recently happened on the HMI of one of our equipment. The IP address ended up being identical to one of the Stratix switches in the panel, resulting in the HMI losing communication with the PLC. This unexpected change has raised some concerns. Have any of you experienced something similar?
In my experience, a static IP address typically doesn't switch without an external trigger. However, it's possible to configure a device with DHCP to consistently receive the same IP address from the server, making it appear as though it has a static IP. In most cases, any sudden changes are more likely due to adjustments made in the HMI settings.
It is a common occurrence for devices to require an explicit "take effect now" command or a power cycle in order for an IP address change to take effect. Additionally, some devices have the ability to programmatically change their own IP address, although this practice is not recommended in most cases. Currently, I am working on a system that includes a Red Lion FlexEdge DA50. In this setup, I have configured everything to be a DHCP Client except for the FlexEdge (acting as the DHCP Server) and the central controller, which does not support DHCP Client. As a result, engineering workstations and visiting technicians only need to refer to the sticker on the access jack for information: "DHCP Server 192.168.10.x".
I encountered an issue with my EIP/IO link master (Sick branded, manufactured by Murr) where the IP address was lost. All other settings remained intact, but the IP had changed. What made this situation even more peculiar is that there were adjustment wheels for the last byte of the IP address. I can't recall if I had to adjust one of the wheels, reboot, then readjust it to get it working again, or if I had to reconfigure the main network settings. This incident occurred after relocating the machine, not during production.
Devices configured with DHCP will typically keep the same IP address unless there is a power outage, brownout, or server reboot. The server assigns IP addresses on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is uncommon for static IP addresses to change on their own. If someone resets a device to default settings, the changes usually require a reboot or assistance from external sources.
In many cases, new equipment is installed without proper IP address verification. It is crucial to maintain a current inventory of all allocated IP addresses. The responsibility of assigning IPs should be solely entrusted to the IT system administrator.
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Answer: - Yes, it is possible for a static IP address on a device to change unexpectedly, as seen in the scenario where the IP address on the HMI device changed and caused communication issues with the PLC.
Answer: - Some possible reasons for an unexpected change in a static IP address could include network configuration errors, IP address conflicts, or unauthorized changes made by users or devices on the network.
Answer: - To prevent unexpected changes in static IP addresses, it is important to regularly monitor network configurations, implement proper network security measures, avoid IP address conflicts, and restrict unauthorized access to network devices.
Answer: - An unexpected change in a static IP address can lead to communication issues between devices on the network, as seen in the scenario where the HMI lost communication with the PLC due to the IP address conflict with the Stratix switch.
Answer: - Troubleshooting unexpected changes in static IP addresses may involve verifying network configurations, resolving IP address conflicts, updating device settings, and ensuring proper network segmentation to prevent future incidents.
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