Process of Dynamically Assigning IP Addresses by DHCP Server

D

The process of dynamically assigning IP addresses by the DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server involves allocating temporary IP addresses to network devices, which are known as DHCP clients. The process works as follows:

1. The DHCP client broadcasts a DHCP discover message on the local network to find a DHCP server. The broadcast message includes the client's MAC (Media Access Control) address.

2. The DHCP server responds with a DHCP offer message, which includes an available IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and other configuration settings.

3. The DHCP client sends a DHCP request message, which confirms that it wants to use the IP address offered by the DHCP server.

4. The DHCP server sends a DHCP acknowledgement message, which includes the IP address and configuration settings. The client can now use the assigned IP address for a specific period.

The DHCP server can assign IP addresses for a fixed period of time known as the lease time, which can be configured on the server. During the lease time, the client can use the assigned IP address without interruption.

When the lease time expires, the client must request a new IP address from the DHCP server. If the client fails to renew the lease, the DHCP server can release the IP address and make it available for other clients to use.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option C: Addresses are assigned for a fixed period of time, at the end of the period, a new request for an address must be made.