DHCP automatically configures IP settings by assigning each device an IP address from a list. It is vulnerable to attacks due to lack of authentication. Most devices with Wi-Fi capability use DHCP, and the server sends new addresses in order of broadcast. Spoofing a DHCP system is possible.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a method of automatically configuring Internet Protocol (IP) settings. The main purpose of DHCP is to remove a lot of the technical knowledge needed to set up a web connection. It achieves this by automatically assigning each computer an IP address from a list of available options. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol will also log internet and network connections so that users can keep track of what is happening at any given moment. Since DHCP does not provide any kind of authentication method in its normal configuration, it is vulnerable to certain types of attacks.
Many different devices use the dynamic host configuration protocol. It is so common in modern network electronics that it is almost a given that an object will contain it. Almost any portable electronic device that connects to a network can use DHCP. Cameras, game consoles and just about anything with Wi-Fi capability will have a DHCP system.
When a device using dynamic host configuration protocol connects to a network, it sends out a broadcast requesting information from the local DHCP server. The server will receive the broadcast and send the information needed for the item to function on the network. The main information sent is the address that the device will use as long as it is connected and the network remains in its current state. It will also often get information about other IP addresses on the network and mask any gateway addresses.
These addresses typically stay the same as long as the network is stable. If the router loses power, the entire network could change configuration when it is turned on again. The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server will send new addresses to each connected device in the order in which it receives its broadcasts. Removing a single item from the system, such as removing a portable network device for use elsewhere, shouldn’t affect other devices. When that device comes back, it may receive a completely different address than it had before.
Most Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol servers do not require any authentication and do not send any with their information. Consequently, there are several methods to spoof a DHCP system. It is possible to impersonate a legitimate DHCP server and send incorrect information, often to route personal or protected information to the wrong place. On the other hand, you can act as a DHCP client and repeatedly ask for address information until the DHCP system runs out of addresses. This will cause any other connection to the network to fail.
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