Which network protocol automatically assigns IP addresses to devices that request one?

The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is the correct choice for this question because it is specifically designed to automate the process of assigning IP addresses to devices on a network. When a device connects to a network and requests an IP address, DHCP utilizes a server to dynamically allocate an unused IP address from a predefined address pool. This process not only simplifies network management by reducing the need for manual configuration but also ensures that IP addresses are efficiently utilized and can be reused when devices disconnect from the network.

In contrast, Static Host Configuration Protocol (SHCP) does not exist in the context of standardized networking protocols, which makes it irrelevant for the question. Internet Protocol (IP) refers to the set of rules governing data transmission across networks but does not handle the assignment of IP addresses itself. Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is used to map IP addresses to MAC addresses within a local network but also does not deal with the assignment of IP addresses. This distinction highlights why DHCP is the correct answer, as it plays a critical role in the automatic assignment process.