What is the working of Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol?


DHCP represents Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It is a network management protocol that can dynamically assign an IP address to a denial device, or node, on a network so they can connect using IP (Internet Protocol).

DHCP automates and centrally handles these configurations. There is no requirement to manually assign IP addresses to new devices. Thus, there is no need for any user configuration to connect to a DHCP-based network.

DHCP decreases the chances of common bugs appearing when IP addresses are created manually. It also ensures no two hosts can have similar IP addresses.

DHCP act an essential role in handling small web where mobile devices are used and needed IP addresses on a non-permanent support. The electronic allocation of IP addresses enables mobile devices to share openly from one network to another.

DHCP supports decreasing the typographical errors when IP address configuration parameters are not defined correctly. Because each device should have a unique IP address, duplicate addresses can cause conflict where one or both of the devices cannot connect to the network.

This appears when addresses are authorized manually. DHCP decreases the risk of such IP address conflicts. If a change is found, the DHCP server is upgraded with new data and the data will be distributed to the new endpoints automatically.

The use of DHCP provides that DHCP clients get efficient and timely IP configuration parameter including IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, IP address of DND server and so on without customer interference.

Working of DHCP

The components required in successful working of DHCP are explained below −

  • DHCP Server − A DHCP server can be a router or a server role as a host. This is a networked device implementing the DHCP service and influencing IP addresses and associated configuration data.

  • DHCP client −DHCP client is the endpoint that receives configuration data from a DHCP server. This can be any device like a computer, laptop, IoT endpoint, or anything else that needs connectivity to the network. Some devices are configured to receive DHCP data by default.

  • DHCP relay −A router or host that accepts client messages being advertised on that network and then forwards them to a configured server. The server then sends responses back to the relay agent that develops them along with the client. This can be used to centralize DHCP servers rather than having a server on each subnet.

  • Lease −Lease is the length of time for which a DHCP client influences the IP address data. When a lease ceases, the client has to reopen it.

  • Subnet −IP networks are logically divided into two or more segments called subnets or sub-networks. Therefore, they can be handled effectively.

Updated on: 23-Nov-2021

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