Which protocol does a DHCP server use to assign IP addresses?

A DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server uses the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) to assign IP addresses. This choice is correct because DHCP operates on a client-server model where clients send requests for IP addresses, and the DHCP server responds with the necessary information. UDP is suitable for this function as it is a connectionless protocol, allowing for faster transmission of data without the overhead of establishing a connection, which is essential in environments where devices frequently join and leave networks.

UDP enables the DHCP server to send packets to clients without the need for a reliable connection. In essence, when a device joins a network and requests an IP address, it sends out a broadcast message over UDP. The DHCP server listens for these requests and responds with an available IP address along with other configuration information. The lightweight nature of UDP fits well in a dynamic network environment, where speed is often critical.

The other protocols listed, such as TCP, HTTP, and FTP, are not used in the DHCP process. TCP is connection-oriented and involves a handshake process, making it less efficient for the rapid assignment of IP addresses. HTTP is a protocol for transferring web pages, while FTP is used for transferring files. Neither is designed for the specific task of dynamic IP address assignment, which is