What is the role of DHCP in a network?

The role of DHCP, or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, in a network is primarily to assign IP addresses dynamically. This process allows devices on a network to automatically receive an IP address and other network configuration parameters, such as the default gateway and DNS server information, without the need for manual configuration by an administrator.

When a device connects to the network, it sends a request to the DHCP server. The server then provides the device with a unique IP address from a predefined pool of addresses, ensuring that no two devices on the same network are assigned the same IP address, which is crucial for proper network communication. This dynamic allocation of IP addresses simplifies network management and enhances the flexibility of the network, especially as devices join or leave the network frequently.

The other options refer to functionalities that are not related to DHCP. Regulating network traffic relates more to QoS (Quality of Service) or other traffic management mechanisms. Encrypting network communications refers to protocols like SSL/TLS, which are designed to secure data transmission. Managing domain names is the role of DNS (Domain Name System), which translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses but does not involve the dynamic assignment of these addresses.