Which protocol is used to automatically assign IP addresses to host computers from a predefined address range?

The protocol that is used to automatically assign IP addresses to host computers from a predefined address range is Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, commonly known as DHCP. This protocol simplifies network administration by dynamically assigning IP addresses and other related network configuration parameters to devices on a network. By doing so, it ensures that devices can communicate effectively on the network without requiring manual configuration for each device.

When a device joins a network, it typically sends a request to a DHCP server, which then allocates an available IP address from its predefined pool and sends the configuration information back to the device. This process helps to prevent IP address conflicts that can occur if multiple devices are assigned the same address manually.

The other protocols mentioned in the choices serve different purposes. DNS (Domain Name System) translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses, ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) resolves IP addresses into physical MAC addresses on a local network, and ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol) is primarily used for error messages and operational information in network operations. Each plays a vital role in networking, but only DHCP is responsible for the automatic assignment of IP addresses.