What is DHCP?
Summary
A glossary definition of DHCP, the protocol that assigns IP addresses to devices on your network.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
Definition: DHCP is a network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses and other network settings (like the Default Gateway and DNS servers) to devices when they connect to a network.
Why it matters: Without DHCP, every time you brought a new phone, laptop, or smart TV into your house, you would have to manually type in a unique, non-conflicting IP address before it could connect to the Wi-Fi. DHCP acts as the automatic host, instantly leasing out addresses from a pool so that everything works seamlessly the moment you enter the Wi-Fi password.
Where is it? In a home environment, the DHCP server is built directly into your Wi-Fi router.
Related Terms: