_________ is a protocol used for assigning dynamic IP addresses to devices on a network.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network. It eliminates the need for a network administrator to manually assign IP addresses to devices. DHCP operates on the principle of leasing, where IP addresses are leased to devices for a specific period. DHCP helps in efficient management of IP addresses in large networks.