What is the primary function of a DHCP server?

The primary function of a DHCP server is to assign IP addresses to devices on a network. DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, and this protocol automates the process of configuring devices on IP networks. When a device, such as a computer or smartphone, connects to the network, it sends a request to the DHCP server. The server then dynamically assigns an available IP address from a predefined range (or pool) of IP addresses, along with other necessary network configuration information, such as the subnet mask and default gateway.

This process eliminates the need for manual IP address configuration, reducing the risk of IP address conflicts and making network management more efficient. Additionally, by automating IP address allocation, DHCP provides a scalable solution that can accommodate a large number of devices without the administrative overhead of static IP address assignment.

The other choices, while related to network management, do not accurately describe the specific role of a DHCP server. Collecting and storing user data relates more to database management and user information systems, managing domain names pertains to DNS servers, and increasing data transmission speeds is generally influenced by other networking technologies rather than the assignment of IP addresses.