DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) uses a four-step process called **DORA** to automatically assign an IP address to a client device on a network.

• D - Discover: The client broadcasts a message, asking for a DHCP server.
• O - Offer: A DHCP server receives the Discover and offers an available IP address to the client.
• R - Request: The client accepts the offer and broadcasts a request to confirm the chosen IP.
• A - Acknowledge: The server sends an acknowledgment, confirming the IP lease.