DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network protocol that automatically gives each device that joins a network an IP address and the other settings it needs, such as the subnet mask, default gateway and DNS servers. Without DHCP, every device would have to be configured by hand.

The process has four steps, often remembered as DORA: the device sends a Discover message, the DHCP server makes an Offer, the device sends a Request and the server sends an Acknowledgement. Addresses are leased for a limited time and renewed automatically. In homes, the Wi-Fi router usually acts as the DHCP server.