In network configurations, what does DHCP eliminate the need for?

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network management protocol used to automate the process of configuring devices on IP networks. By enabling DHCP, network administrators can assign IP addresses dynamically to devices on the network, removing the need for each device to have a static IP address assigned manually.

Static IP assignments require individual configuration on each device, which can be very time-consuming and prone to human error, especially in larger networks where many devices need to be connected. With DHCP, devices can automatically retrieve their IP address and other necessary network configurations (like subnet mask, gateway address, and DNS server information) from a DHCP server, streamlining network management and enhancing flexibility.

The other options—dynamic coding practices, manual router configurations, and authentication procedures for network access—do not relate directly to the specific function of DHCP, which focuses mainly on IP address allocation rather than these other aspects of network management.