What does DHCP stand for, and what is its purpose?

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network management protocol used to automate the process of configuring devices on IP networks. Its primary purpose is to dynamically assign IP addresses to devices, ensuring that each device on the network has a unique IP address that allows it to communicate effectively. By automating the assignment of IP addresses, DHCP reduces the chances of manual errors and IP address conflicts, making it simpler to manage a network, especially as the number of devices increases.

The process involves a DHCP server that maintains a pool of IP addresses and leases them to devices (clients) when they join the network. The server also provides additional information such as subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses, allowing the devices to configure their network settings automatically. This automatic configuration facilitates efficient network management and ensures seamless connectivity for devices within the network.