I was wondering (I'm a relative newbie) if it is possible to install Debian Etch from the netinst CD on a static network. I know the default behavior is to use DHCP and that you can then later change it to a static ip address. The thing is that I can't get a dynamic ip address at all, I'm in a totally static network here (an office at a university). I have a static ip address to assign it. Is there a way to use a static ip during the install? Or is it not possible and I'll need to use the full set of install CDs (all 14 or so)? Any ideas or help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Yes that's possible, I did it like this.

http://www.howtoforge.com/perfect_setup_debian_etch

Let the DHCP detection fail it should ask if you want to setup manually with your static settings, you just need to put in yours eg. IP, network, gateway, nameserver(s) ... then continue on with the install once it gets the connection.

I am the same here.
guess it shows how much of a control freak i am.
i setup all my linux pc's on a static ip address.


leave the network cable unplugged till such time that the dhcp fails and then it gives you a warning dialog,
and the next option lets you set ip's etc manually.

once done and your onto the next step,
plug ur cable back in.

DJ

Be sure to put the correct network settings! One decimal error and nothing will connect.

Thanks for all the help. I also found out that if you boot in expert mode you can choose to set up a static IP instead of choosing DHCP.