What is the role of a DHCP server in a network?

The role of a DHCP server in a network is to allocate dynamic IP addresses to devices. DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, and it automates the process of assigning IP addresses to each device on a network. When a device connects to the network, it sends a DHCP request. The DHCP server responds by leasing an IP address from a predefined pool of addresses, ensuring efficient use of available IP space and reducing the risk of IP conflicts.

This dynamic allocation allows devices to easily connect and disconnect from the network without manual configuration, making network management much simpler. By using DHCP, network administrators can streamline the process of IP address distribution, ensure that devices receive proper network configuration parameters, and minimize the complexity involved in maintaining large networks.