Abstract: The present invention encompasses a proxy method for providing an IP address to a computer configured for operation on a wide area network using a local area network address assignment format. The method allows a subscriber side network terminal to receive from a locally attached computer an IP address request in a wide area network compatible format and to obtain from a remote server an IP address using a local area network compatible request.

Abstract: A network for enabling a local area telephone system to simultaneously carry digital data and analog voice signals on the same tansmission medium. Such a system typically includes a PBX and twisted wire pairs connected to distributed telephone handsets. The network incorporates distributed station units for coupling both voice band signals from telephone handsets and RF signals from data devices to the wire pairs. The station units are physically interconnected in a star configuration with respect to a hub module preferably located in a telephone closet. The hub module includes a plurality of hub units, each uniquely connected by a wire pair to one of the station units. Each station unit and each hub unit incorporates passive filter means to separate voice band and RF band signals. A token passing procedure is used to assign network control to the multiple station units in logical sequence.