TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

Which service can you use to automatically assign IP addresses to hosts and to help prevent the same address from being assigned to two different hosts?

1. Dynamically Address Protocol (DAP)

2. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)

3. Static Host Configuration Protocol (SHCP)

4. Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)

The correct answer is: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is the service designed to automatically assign IP addresses to hosts within a network, eliminating the need for manual configuration. DHCP operates by maintaining a pool of IP addresses and then allocating them to devices as they connect to the network. This automated process ensures efficient use of IP addresses and reduces the likelihood of address conflicts, where two hosts could mistakenly be assigned the same IP address. When a device connects to a network, it sends out a request for an IP address. The DHCP server receives this request and assigns an available address from its pool, along with other necessary network configuration details, such as the subnet mask and default gateway. The DHCP server also tracks which addresses have been assigned, which aids in preventing duplicate assignments and ensures a smooth operation of network communications. The other options mentioned do not fulfill the role of assigning IP addresses dynamically nor do they prevent conflicts effectively.