Which technology allows for the automatic assignment of IP addresses in a network?

The technology that facilitates the automatic assignment of IP addresses in a network is Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). DHCP operates by dynamically allocating IP addresses to devices within a network, ensuring that each device can connect without requiring manual configuration of an IP address every time it connects. This process not only simplifies network management but also prevents address conflicts by keeping track of current allocations.

DHCP operates on a client-server model. The DHCP server maintains a pool of IP addresses and assigns them to clients as they connect to the network. As devices request an IP address, the DHCP server responds with an available address along with configuration settings such as the subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server information.

The other options do not serve this function. For instance, Domain Name System (DNS) translates domain names into IP addresses, but it doesn’t assign IP addresses to devices. DML refers to something that is not related to networking or IP address management. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) is a type of cyber attack, not a network management protocol. Thus, the understanding of DHCP is essential for anyone interested in networking and system administration, as it automates and streamlines the process of connecting devices to a network.