This simulator teaches how DNS and DHCP work in real networks. Watch data flow and learn step-by-step!
• Drag any device to move it around
• Click clients to request IP addresses
• Watch colored packets flow along connections
• Read the explanations on the right panel
Purpose: Your router automatically gives each device a unique IP address so they can communicate on the network.
DORA Process: Discover → Offer → Request → Acknowledge
Purpose: DNS is like the internet's phone book. When you type "google.com", your router finds the actual IP address (like 142.250.185.78) where that website lives.
Process: Your device asks the router "Where is google.com?" The router either knows the answer (cached) or asks internet servers until it finds out.
Watch how the router finds website addresses step-by-step:
The router remembers recent lookups to answer faster next time:
Client broadcasts: "I need an IP address!"
Router responds: "I can offer you this IP"
Client confirms: "Yes, I accept that IP"
Router confirms: "IP is now yours!"