DHCP vs Static IP

Static IP is not really that complex as it simply means that the IP of a certain network element like a computer or router stays the same throughout. The easiest method of achieving this would be by configuring the network card to take the same IP. But there are limitations to using static IPs, not to mention that it’s tiresome for the administrator, and dynamic IPs are used instead. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, abbreviated to DHCP, is a protocol for assigning free IP addresses to computers that are connected to the network.

Using DHCP is advantageous for network administrators because it removes the repetitive task of assigning IP addresses to each computer on the network and when adding more units. It might only take a minute but when you are configuring hundreds of computers, it really gets annoying. Wireless access points also utilize DHCP so that users would no longer need to configure their laptops to connect. Having static IPs and guessing which IP is not in use is really bothersome and time consuming, especially for those who are not familiar with the process.

Although there are advantages to DHCP and dynamic IP addresses, there are still applications where you need to have a static IP. One good example is when you have a local web server installed. DHCP is capable of assigning both dynamic and static IP addresses, as long as you have it configured correctly. Static IP assignment is achieved by pairing the IP address to the MAC address, which is unique, of the network card. Whenever the computer requests an IP, the DHCP server would recognize the MAC address of the network card and assign the same IP.

DHCP is a rather simple tool to use and the fact that it is often included in the feature list of most routers gives us no reason not to use it. Even if you need to use Static IPs, DHCP is still capable of doing this.

Summary:
1. DHCP is a protocol for automating the task of assigning IP addresses while Static IP is when a certain network element gets the same IP address all the time
2. DHCP is primarily used for assigning dynamic IP addresses but it can also be used to assign static IP addresses
3. DHCP is used in wireless access points as using Static IP would be too bothersome
4. DHCP is utilized in most networks because it is easy but Static IPs are still required for some cases

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