DHCP is a network management protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses and other configuration settings to devices on a network. It eliminates the need for manual configuration, ensuring efficient and conflict-free IP management.
How It Works:
- DHCP Discovery: The client broadcasts a request for an IP address.
- DHCP Offer: The server responds with an available IP.
- DHCP Request: The client requests the offered IP.
- DHCP Acknowledgment: The server assigns the IP and sends confirmation.
Applications:
- Used in home, enterprise, and ISP networks for automatic IP assignment and centralized management.