DHCP

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a communication procedure that enables a network to automate the tasks of assigning and handling IP addresses. Internet Protocol calls for each computer with internet capability to have a unique IP address. Without the implementation of DHCP, the IP address must be manually entered on each computer when it moves to a different location in the network. DCHP makes it easy for a network administrator to distribute IP addresses from a central location. When DHCP is used, a specific IP address will be leased a certain amount of time in which it will remain valid. This time limit varies depending on how long a user may need the network connection in a particular location. DHCP is rather useful in network environments that frequently changes users. By using shorter time periods, this protocol can dynamically reconfigure a network where there are actually more computers than available IP addresses. DHCP also supports static addresses for systems that require permanent IP addresses such as a web server.