DHCP, or Dynamic Host Configuration Mechanism, is a protocol for allocating free IP addresses to machines connected to a network.
Static IP is not too complicated; it simply implies that the IP address of a particular network device, such as a computer or router, remains constant throughout.
The simplest way to do this is to configure the network card to use the same IP address. However, static IPs have limits and are tedious for the administrator. Therefore dynamic IPs are utilized instead.
Key Takeaways
- DHCP assigns dynamic IP addresses, while static IP addresses remain fixed.
- DHCP simplifies network administration, while static IP addresses require manual configuration.
- Static IP addresses, like hosting servers, are more reliable for certain applications but are more susceptible to security risks.
DHCP vs Static IP
The difference between DHCP and Static IP is that DHCP is a technology that automates the process of allocating IP addresses, while static IP is when a network device always receives the same IP address. Since most routers come with DHCP as a standard function, there’s no good reason not to utilize it when available. You can still use DHCP even if you have to use Static IPs.
An IP address may be automatically assigned to a computer or other networked device via the DHCP protocol, which stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol.
DHCP-assigned addresses on routers, switches, or servers simplify network administrators to set up and administer the network.
A home router, wireless router, or switch with NAT/DHCP may be purchased and connected to each computer on the web to set up DHCP.
Static IP addresses, as the name implies, do not change. Weeks, months, or even years may pass without any changes being made.
Companies that prefer static IPs are desired by companies that provide dedicated internet services such as web hosting since they are fixed. Manual assignment is used by Internet service providers (ISPs).
Comparison Table
| Parameters Of Comparison | DHCP | Static IP |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A DHCP address, otherwise called a unique Internet Protocol address, is an impermanent IP address given to a gadget or hub when it interfaces with an organization. | A static IP address, otherwise called a static Internet Protocol address, is a numeric location that is physically given to an organization gadget. |
| Server | The DHCP server automatically assigns dynamic IP addresses. | The network administrator assigns static IP addresses manually. |
| Security | The DHCP address is more secure. | Less secure |
| Changes | Each time a device connects to the network, its dynamic IP address changes. | Once given to a device, a static IP address does not change. |
| Cost | More cost-effective. | Less cost-effective. |
What is DHCP?
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) servers issue DHCP addresses. Additionally, it gives the device an IP address and a DNS server with a subnet mask.
Selecting “get an IP address automatically” in the network properties box on a Microsoft PC will dynamically cause the device to acquire an IP address.
DHCP-assigned addresses on routers, switches, or servers simplify network administrators to set up and administer the network.
A home router, wireless router, or switch with NAT/DHCP may be purchased and connected to each computer on the web to set up DHCP. It’s much simpler to manage a network when DHCP addressing is used.
An ever-changing IP address is referred to as a dynamic one. A DHCP server must be set up and running on the network before dynamic IP addresses may be created.
The DHCP server gives all devices connecting to the web a temporary IP address. IP addresses are assigned to network devices on a physical network using Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP).
It distributes and updates IP addresses and other network configuration data automatically.
Assigning IP addresses to each machine on the network is tedious work for network managers, thus, using DHCP saves them time.
Configuring hundreds of devices takes a long time to do something that takes just a minute.
The usage of DHCP by wireless access points means users no longer have to set up their computers before connecting manually.
What is Static IP?
A static IP address is given to a device by hand and cannot be changed. IP addresses were first assigned using this technique.
In this case, the network administrator must manually enter the IP address for each machine on the network on the network setup page.
In addition, the administrator must provide information like the subnet mask and the default gateway in the configuration file for the router.
Furthermore, all of the network’s devices had to follow this procedure. If there are many devices on the web, assigning static IP addresses becomes challenging.
However, a static IP address remains in place until the network administrator or Internet service provider makes a manual adjustment (ISP).
In addition, the user’s IP address remains the same no matter how many times they connect to the network. To put it another way, the gadget always connects to the internet using the same IP address.
It provides remote access with the least amount of downtime possible. Additionally, the user has access to the device from anywhere.
Having static IPs and figuring out which one isn’t in use is a massive pain for those who aren’t acquainted with the procedure.
A static IP address may be assigned by associating it with the network card’s MAC address, which is different from the IP address.
Main Differences Between DHCP and Static IP
- DHCP is a technology that automates the process of allocating IP addresses, while static IP is when a network device always receives the same IP address.
- DHCP is mainly used for dynamic IP address assignment, although it may also be used for static IP address assignment.
- DHCP is used in wireless access points because static IP addresses are too inconvenient.
- While DHCP is used in the majority of networks due to its simplicity, static IP addresses are still needed in certain situations.
- The DCHP address is more secure, while the Static Ip address is less secure.
Last Updated : 17 August, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
DHCP provides a more efficient and practical approach to assigning IP addresses, simplifying the task for network administrators.
The time and effort saved by using DHCP for network administration is substantial, making it the logical choice for most scenarios.
The automation and simplicity provided by DHCP addressing overshadow the manual effort and complexity associated with static IP addresses.
Dynamic IP addresses are better suited for most networks, as the automation provided by DHCP outweighs the benefits of static IP addresses.
The automated allocation of IP addresses by DHCP offers compelling benefits in terms of network management, enhancing both security and efficiency.
The level of security provided by DHCP addresses should not be underestimated, making it a highly desirable option for network configurations.
The automatic allocation and updating of IP addresses by DHCP servers alleviate a major burden for network managers, improving efficiency.
The practicality and security advantages of DHCP serve as strong arguments against the use of static IP addresses in modern network environments.