What is bootp?

BOOTP, which stands for Bootstrap Protocol, is a network protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses to devices on a network. It is typically used in conjunction with DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) to provide a network configuration to devices when they initially boot up.

BOOTP works by having a client device send a request to a BOOTP server, typically a router or a server on the network, for an IP address. The server then assigns an IP address to the client based on a predefined configuration.

One of the main differences between BOOTP and DHCP is that BOOTP requires manual configuration of IP address mappings, while DHCP is able to automatically assign IP addresses without the need for manual intervention. However, DHCP also includes features such as address lease renewal and address reuse, which are not supported by BOOTP.

BOOTP is commonly used in network environments where a device needs to quickly assign an IP address to a client, such as in diskless workstations or when booting an operating system over a network. It is considered an older protocol and is typically being replaced by DHCP in modern network environments.