DHCP is an abbreviation for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A network management protocol that allows the allocation of internet protocol (IP) addresses and other network configuration information to host devices on a TCP/IP network.

A DHCP server allows hosts to automatically request IP addresses and other network parameters. This eliminates the need for the network administrator or user to manually enter network parameters to connected host devices to communicate.

Devices communicate within and over a network using internet protocol (IP). A DHCP server can manage the allocation of these IP addresses in a local network. DHCP works on a client-sever model.

When a host connects to a network, the DHCP client sends a broadcast requesting an IP allocation. The DHCP server then responds with network configuration parameters as well as a time frame for the lease of the address as predefined by the administrator.