What feature of DHCP allows devices to automatically reconfigure their IP addresses?

Dynamic allocation is the feature of DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) that facilitates the automatic assignment of IP addresses to devices on a network. When a device connects to a network, DHCP allows it to request an IP address from a pool of available addresses managed by the DHCP server. This process not only streamlines network configuration but also ensures that devices can seamlessly reconfigure their IP addresses when they reconnect to the network or after a lease time expires.

Dynamic allocation is particularly beneficial in environments where devices frequently join and leave the network, such as in dynamic office settings or Wi-Fi hotspots. This flexibility promotes efficient use of IP address pools and minimizes conflicts, allowing for easier management of network resources.

In contrast, static allocation involves permanently assigning an IP address to a device, which does not allow for automatic reconfiguration. Manual allocation similarly does not provide for automatic reconfiguration, as it requires human intervention to assign or update IP addresses. Hot-swapping refers to the ability to replace components in a system without shutting it down, which does not relate to IP address configuration in networking scenarios.