Which protocol is used to dynamically manage IP addresses and allocation?

The protocol used to dynamically manage IP addresses and allocation is DHCP, which stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. DHCP automates the process of assigning IP addresses to devices on a network, eliminating the need for manual configuration. When a device—such as a computer, smartphone, or printer—connects to a network, it sends a request for an IP address. The DHCP server responds with an available IP address from a defined pool, along with other necessary configuration details like the subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses.

This dynamic allocation is beneficial because it enables efficient management of IP addresses, reducing the workload on network administrators who would otherwise have to assign IP addresses statically. Additionally, DHCP helps in managing IP conflicts by ensuring that each address is uniquely assigned and automatically reallocated when devices disconnect from the network.

Other protocols mentioned serve different purposes. TRCP is a non-standard acronym and does not pertain to IP address management. RARP, or Reverse Address Resolution Protocol, is primarily used to map a known hardware address to an IP address, essentially the opposite of what DHCP does. IPX is the Internetwork Packet Exchange protocol, which was used mainly in Novell networks and is not related to IP address management.