Which of the following is a feature of the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)?

The correct answer is that DHCP automates IP address assignment. This protocol plays a crucial role in network management by allowing devices on a network to automatically receive their IP addresses and other relevant configuration settings needed to communicate effectively within the network.

When a device connects to a network, the DHCP server dynamically allocates an IP address from a configured range (known as a scope) to that device for a specific lease time. This automation not only simplifies the process of managing IP addresses but also helps to avoid conflicts that can arise from manual assignment, such as duplicate IP addresses.

In contrast, the other options involve characteristics that do not accurately describe DHCP. Providing a static address only suggests a fixed configuration that does not align with the dynamic nature of DHCP. Characterizing DHCP as a connection-oriented service misrepresents its function, as DHCP operates over the User Datagram Protocol (UDP), which is connectionless. Finally, the requirement for manual configuration of changes suggests a static setup, while DHCP is designed to reduce the need for manual intervention by automating address assignments and reducing administrative overhead.