About advanced networking options
Use Network preferences to set advanced options, such as WINS, DNS, and proxy server settings, depending on the network service you’re using, and the services provided by your ISP or network administrator. Not all options are available for all services.
TCP/IP settings
Set up some network services to use IPv6 addresses instead of IPv4 addresses. See Enter advanced TCP/IP settings.
DNS settings
A DNS (Domain Name System) server converts Internet names to IP addresses so you don’t have to know the IP address of a server you’re trying to connect to. See Enter DNS and search domain settings.
WINS settings
Windows Internet Naming Service (WINS) is part of Microsoft Windows servers and manages the association of server names and locations with Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. See Set WINS options.
Proxy server settings
If your computer is connected to a network that’s protected from the Internet by a firewall, you may need to specify proxy servers or use the FTP passive mode (PASV) to access some Internet sites. See Enter proxy server settings.
Ethernet hardware settings
Set Ethernet hardware options if your network requires it and your network service supports it. See Set advanced hardware options or Use Gigabit Ethernet.