DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically assigns IP addresses and network settings to devices in a network.
- Eliminates manual IP configuration
- Prevents IP address conflicts
- Saves time and reduces errors
- Centralized IP management
- Discover – Client broadcasts request
- Offer – Server offers IP
- Request – Client requests IP
- Acknowledge – Server confirms lease
A DHCP scope defines the range of IP addresses that can be assigned to clients along with subnet mask, gateway, and DNS.
Lease time determines how long a client can use an IP address before it must be renewed.
DHCP reservation assigns a fixed IP to a device based on its MAC address (used for servers, printers, CCTV).
In offices and hospitals, DHCP assigns IPs to laptops, desktops, Wi-Fi devices, and VoIP phones automatically.