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Networking Intermediate

What is DHCP?

A protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses and network configuration to devices on a network.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) eliminates manual IP configuration. When a device joins a network, it sends a broadcast request. The DHCP server responds with an available IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers.

The DORA process (Discover, Offer, Request, Acknowledge) handles address assignment. Leases have expiration times, after which addresses must be renewed.

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A virtual network built on top of an existing physical network, enabling features like container networking and VPNs.
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