What is the main purpose of DHCP?

The main purpose of DHCP, or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, is to automatically assign IP addresses to devices within a network. This protocol simplifies the process of managing IP addresses and ensures that each device receives a unique address from the DHCP server, which reduces the administrative burden and the likelihood of address conflicts.

When a device joins a network, it sends a request to the DHCP server, which then leases an IP address to the device along with other relevant network configuration information, such as subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses. This automated assignment process allows for efficient network configuration, especially in environments with a large number of devices that frequently connect and disconnect.

Other options mention functionalities like directing data packets, filtering traffic, and securing connections for remote users, which are roles of different networking protocols and technologies but do not relate to the primary function of DHCP.