Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol – client/server protocol for dynamically allocating IP addresses and network parameters. The IP addresses are requested by the DHCP clients (PCs in the network) on the DHCP server (for example, a router or the Internet service provider). The DHCP server takes these IP addresses from a set address pool and sends them to the client. In addition, the client receives additional information (for example, the addresses for the standard gateway and DNS server).

The IP address is temporarily allocated for a certain amount of time. If the address is no longer required by the client, the server has access to it again, and can allocate it to another client.