CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)InfrastructureEasy
A new employee plugs a laptop into the office network via Ethernet and is immediately able to browse the internet without any manual network configuration. Which service most likely assigned the IP address automatically?
- AFTP
- BDHCP
- CNAT
- DDNS
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. DHCP
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically assigns IP addresses, subnet masks, gateways, and DNS servers to devices on a network, allowing plug-and-play connectivity. DNS resolves names to IPs, NAT translates addresses, and FTP transfers files.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. FTP is a file transfer protocol unrelated to IP addressing.
- C. NAT translates private IPs to public IPs for internet access, not initial assignment.
- D. DNS translates domain names to IP addresses, it does not assign them.
DHCP
A protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses and network configuration to devices when they join a network.
- Eliminates manual IP configuration
- Assigns IP, subnet mask, gateway, DNS
- Uses a lease/renewal process
Memory trick: DHCP 'Delivers Home Configuration Promptly' to new devices.