BOOTP

BOOTP (Bootstrap Protocol) is an internet protocol that lets a network user automatically be configured to receive an IP address and have an operating system booted without user involvement.

BOOTP is executed using User Datagram Protocol (UDP) and is the basis for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). DHCP servers are used to receive client requests.

• BOOTP is the successor of RARP. The problem with RARP is that it only works within a broadcast domain and only assigns IP addresses. Not other options like the default gateway or a DNS server.
• BOOTP assigns IP addresses to host with a BOOTP server.
• BOOTP uses the UDP protocol and IP so it’s routable. So it can work relay agents and a central BOOTP server for all your different subnets.
• The BOOTP server uses a database with MAC addresses, IP addresses, and other options. You need to add this information yourself in the database.