What is DHCP?

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It is a network protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses and other network configuration settings to devices on a network.

Here's how DHCP works:

1. IP Address Assignment: When a device connects to a network that uses DHCP, it sends out a broadcast request for an IP address. A DHCP server on the network receives this request.

2. IP Address Allocation: The DHCP server selects an available IP address from a pool of addresses that it manages and assigns it to the requesting device. This process is known as IP address allocation.

3. Configuration Settings: Along with the IP address, the DHCP server can also provide other configuration settings to the device, such as the subnet mask, default gateway, DNS server addresses, and more.

4. Lease Duration: The IP address assigned by DHCP is not permanent. Instead, it is leased to the device for a specific period of time, known as the lease duration. Before the lease expires, the device can request to renew its lease, allowing it to continue using the same IP address. If the lease expires and is not renewed, the IP address returns to the pool of available addresses for reassignment.

DHCP greatly simplifies the process of network configuration by automating the assignment of IP addresses and other network settings, reducing the need for manual configuration and minimizing the risk of conflicts between devices. It is commonly used in both small home networks and large enterprise networks.