What does the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol primarily manage?

The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) primarily manages IP address configuration. It is a network management protocol used to automate the process of assigning IP addresses to devices on a network. When a device connects to a network, DHCP allows it to request an IP address from a server, which then dynamically allocates an IP address for the device's use.

This process simplifies the otherwise manual task of setting up network configurations, ensuring that IP addresses are effectively managed, preventing conflicts, and making it easier to add devices to a network. DHCP also provides additional information, such as subnet masks and default gateways, which are essential for network communication.

In the context of the other options, data encryption relates to securing information against unauthorized access but does not involve IP address management. Email transmission is concerned with the protocols used to send and receive emails, while file transfers involve the protocols used for moving files across networks. None of these functions relate to the core purpose of DHCP, which is focused exclusively on IP address configuration.