Which device commonly uses DHCP to obtain an IP address?

Client workstations commonly use DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) to obtain an IP address. DHCP is designed to automate the process of IP address assignment, allowing devices on a network to request an IP address from a DHCP server dynamically rather than having to be configured manually.

When a client workstation connects to a network, it broadcasts a request for an IP address. The DHCP server then responds with an available IP address along with other configuration parameters, such as the subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server information. This process simplifies network management, especially in environments with many devices.

While devices like wireless routers also utilize DHCP, they typically function as DHCP servers rather than clients requesting addresses. Static servers, by definition, have fixed IP addresses and do not use DHCP. Likewise, network switches operate on Layer 2 of the OSI model and do not require an IP address for basic operation, though they may use DHCP in some management contexts but are not common clients in most networks.

Thus, client workstations represent the most common use case for obtaining an IP address via DHCP.