Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol Defined

A Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)  is a network management protocol that provides fast, automatic, and central management for the distribution of IP addresses.  

A DHCP server enables computers to request IP addresses and networking parameters automatically from the Internet service provider (ISP), which in turn, reduces the need for a network administrator to manually assign IP addresses.

In most homes and small businesses, the router acts as the DHCP server, while in larger networks, a single computer might act as the DHCP server.

Benefits of having a DHCP include:

• Reliable IP address configuration as a DHCP minimizes configuration errors caused by manual IP address configuration.
• Reduced network administration as a DHCP has the following features:
  • Centralized and automated TCP/IP configuration.
  • The ability to define TCP/IP configurations from a central location.
  • The ability to assign a full range of additional TCP/IP configuration values by means of DHCP options.
  • The efficient handling of IP address changes for clients.
  • The forwarding of initial DHCP messages by using a DHCP relay agent.

In Data Defined, we help make the complex world of data more accessible by explaining some of the most complex aspects of the field.

Click Here for more Data Defined.