Device discovery is the process by which a network identifies and locates devices connected to it. This can include computers, smartphones, printers, and other hardware. The goal is to create a list of all devices that are available for communication, allowing users to manage and interact with them effectively. During device discovery, protocols such as Bonjour or Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) are often used to facilitate the identification process. These protocols help devices announce their presence and capabilities, making it easier for users to find and connect to them without needing to know specific addresses or configurations.