Inside Tufts University Information Technology

Network Engineering

Tufts' IP Database (Cardinal)

What is Cardinal ?
Cardinal is a database that tracks assigned IP addresses and DNS names. Ideally, it tracks the Responsible Party and MAC (ethernet) address for any statically assigned address as well, though that information is sometimes inaccurate.

What does Cardinal allow me to do?
Lookup information about any known MAC address, IP address, IP subnet, DNS name, DNS zone, or user.
Request a new static IP address and/or DNS name.
Request that a computer with an existing static IP be moved to a new subnet or zone.
Register a dynamic DHCP client. (If you are connect from the client to be registered this can be done through TUNIS.)

What do I need in order to use Cardinal?

  1. You must a have a valid UTLN and Trumpeter password.
  2. You must be an FSP or obtain special authorization from Network Engineering to use Cardinal. If you are not on the FSP list maintained by the UIT Helpdesk, you must have a letter from your Department Head explaining your need for authorization sent to Network Engineering, noc@net.tufts.edu. Such requests will be reviewed and may be rejected by Network Engineering staff or the Chief Information Security Officer.
  3. You must understand the fundamentals of IP addressing, DNS, DHCP and client configuration if you are requesting IP addresses.
  4. You must connect to Cardinal from within the Tufts network.
How long does it take to get a new IP address ?
Requests for static addresses are generally processed in a batch mode twice a week.
DHCP client registrations are processed automatically every 3 minutes and should be active within 15 minutes.