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Glossary Networking

DHCP

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically gives devices an IP address and the other settings they need to join a network.

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In more detail

When a device connects, it asks the DHCP server (usually the router) for a configuration. The reply lends it an address for a set lease time, along with the Subnet mask, Default gateway and DNS servers. DHCP uses UDP ports 67 (server) and 68 (client). Fixed addresses for printers or servers are set as reservations.

See also

  • Glossary IP address
    An IP address is the number that identifies a device on a network so that data can be sent to it.
  • Glossary Router
    A router is a device that forwards data packets between different networks, choosing the path for each one.
  • Glossary Default gateway
    The default gateway is the router a device sends traffic to when the destination is outside its own subnet.
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