DHCP is used for configuring network addresses for hosts that join the network, that aren't configured preemptively. Using the DORA process, (D)iscover sends a broadcast from the new device, and a DHCP server responds with an (O)ffer containing a valid address. The host responds with a (R)equest, whereby the host wants to use that address, and the server responds with a (A)cknowledge whereby the server gives permission for the computer to use that address. The computer gives itself that address, and the server logs the action and knows not to give the same address.