Which system is responsible for converting alphabetic names into numeric IP addresses on the Internet?

The system that converts alphabetic names into numeric IP addresses on the Internet is known as the Domain Name System (DNS). DNS acts like a phonebook for the Internet by translating user-friendly domain names, such as www.example.com, into their corresponding numerical IP addresses, which computers use to identify each other on the network.

This conversion is essential because while humans prefer to navigate the web using easy-to-remember names, computers communicate via IP addresses. The DNS performs this crucial task, allowing users to access websites without needing to memorize complex numerical strings. By resolving domain names to IP addresses, DNS facilitates smoother Internet navigation and enhances the overall user experience.

Other systems mentioned, like the Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP), are responsible for dynamically assigning IP addresses to devices on a network. The Post Office Protocol (POP) is used for retrieving emails from a mail server, and Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure communication over a computer network. None of these functions involve translating domain names into IP addresses, which is the primary role of the Domain Name System.