A method and apparatus for dynamically and automatically configuring an
endpoint device to a computer network of a network system. When the
endpoint device, such as a computer or router, initially connects to a
computer network, it is dynamically assigned or allocated a first unique
network (IP) address, as by a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
server. The allocation of the first network address is monitored and, in
response to the monitored allocation, a connection between a
configuration manager and the endpoint device is established. The class
of the endpoint device is then remotely identified and appropriate
configuration information stored in a configuration database is retrieved
and utilized to automatically configure the endpoint device within the
network system.