What is DHCP and how does it work in a network environment?

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It is a network management protocol used to assign IP addresses and other configuration settings dynamically to devices within a network.

In a network environment, DHCP works by having a centralized DHCP server that manages a pool of IP addresses. When a device connects to the network, it sends a DHCP request to the server, which then assigns a unique IP address to the device for a specified lease period. This allows devices to join the network and communicate without manual configuration of IP addresses.

Overall, DHCP simplifies network administration by automating the process of IP address assignment and ensures efficient use of IP addresses within the network.