DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network management protocol used on IP networks to automatically assign IP addresses and other network configuration information to devices. It simplifies the process of IP address allocation by centralizing the management of IP addresses within a network. DHCP is typically used in local area networks (LANs) where a large number of devices need to connect and obtain IP addresses without manual configuration.
DHCP is used to automate and manage the assignment of IP addresses within a network. Instead of manually assigning IP addresses to each device, DHCP servers dynamically allocate IP addresses from a pool of available addresses. When a device connects to the network, it sends a DHCP request. A DHCP server responds by offering an IP address lease along with other configuration parameters such as subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses. If the device accepts the lease, it configures its network settings accordingly and can communicate on the network.
DHCP assigns IP addresses using a lease mechanism. When a device connects to a network and requests an IP address, the DHCP server selects an available IP address from its configured pool. The server then assigns this IP address to the device for a specified lease period. During this lease period, the device can use the assigned IP address and other network settings. Before the lease expires, the device can renew the lease with the DHCP server to continue using the same IP address. If the lease is not renewed, the IP address returns to the pool of available addresses for reuse by other devices. This dynamic allocation and management of IP addresses by DHCP help optimize IP address usage within a network and simplify network administration tasks.
