how ip addresses are assigned

IP addresses are assigned using a combination of two methods:

1. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP): DHCP is a network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network. When a device connects to a network, it sends a DHCP request to a DHCP server, which then assigns an available IP address from a pool of addresses. The assigned IP address is typically leased to the device for a specific period of time, after which it may be reassigned to another device.

2. Static IP Address Assignment: A static IP address is manually assigned to a device by a network administrator. This method is often used for devices that require constant connectivity, such as servers or network printers. A network administrator manually enters the IP address, along with other network configuration details, directly into the device's settings.

In both cases, IP addresses are typically assigned by network administrators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to ensure proper network management and to maintain the uniqueness of each IP address within a network or on the internet.