Which DHCP network address allocation mechanism assigns a host a temporary IP address?

The dynamic allocation mechanism is specifically designed to assign temporary IP addresses to hosts. It operates by using a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server that dynamically assigns IP addresses from a designated pool of addresses. When a device connects to the network, it requests an IP address, and the DHCP server responds with an available address for a specific lease period.

This lease can be renewed by the device while it is still connected, but the address is not permanently assigned, allowing the same IP address to be reused by different devices over time. This flexibility in address allocation makes dynamic mechanisms particularly effective for networks with a high turnover of devices, such as guest networks or events.

In contrast, other allocation methods, like static allocation, permanently assign specific IP addresses to devices, meaning that the address does not change unless manually reconfigured. Automatic allocation might also assign IPs automatically but typically involves a more permanent assignment linked to a device's MAC address. Manual allocation requires a network administrator to configure the address directly on the device itself.