A method for obtaining virtual path identifier, virtual channel identifier, and encapsulation values in an asynchronous transfer mode access device for a network using either non-static or static internet protocol address assignments and asynchronous transfer mode adaptation layer 5. In the non-static environment, a plurality of discovery packets are generated, but in the static environment, a plurality of address resolution protocol packets are generated. Headers are added to the plurality of packets, such that a first set of packets, each packet including a logical link control header, and a second set of packets, each packet including a virtual channel multiplexed header, are realized. The first and second sets of packets are encapsulated and then transmitted to a central office. It is determined if a valid response packet has been received to any of the transmitted packets, and a virtual path identifier/virtual channel identifier pair value and encapsulation value are established, based upon a virtual path identifier/virtual channel identifier pair value and encapsulation value of the received valid response. The established virtual path identifier/virtual channel identifier pair value and encapsulation value are utilized for transferring data between the asynchronous transfer mode access device and a central office.