I don't know much about this subject. Can't seem to find a specific answer. Here it goes.... Trying to set up port-forwarding on my MacBook (using Azureus) to get a faster connection. I currently (and everyone in my apartment) use DHCP to get our IP addresses. If I set up a static IP (which seems like what you must do to port forward), do I have to set one up for ALL my roommates computers as well? Do I have to completely disable DHCP in my router of can I just make an exception for my laptop? And finally, If I take my laptop to school or to the coffee (or wherever) will using a Static IP address be a problem? In the meantime, going to hit up Google and try to figure as much as I can out....
When you configure "port forwarding" on your router (e.g. AirPort Extreme), you are configuring the NAT Port Mapping Protocol - allowing certain applications (e.g. Azureus) to use a specific port or range of ports. However, each computer connected to the router can be configured manually to have a static IP or use (automatic) DHCP addressing, among other options. The solution to using your static IP configured Mac notebook at a Wi-Fi hotspot is simple. Go to the: Apple Menu -> Location -> Network Preferences -> Location -> Edit Locations -> Click the plus button to add a location. You can configure this new location to use DHCP addressing (for Wi-Fi hotspots) or otherwise. When you're at a hotspot, simply go to Locations in the Apple Menu and switch locations.