An IP address (Internet Protocol) is a unique numeric identifier assigned to every device connected to a computer network, including the Internet. It is used to locate and identify a device, such as a computer, smartphone, printer, or server, within a given network.
An IP address consists of numbers and sometimes letters, depending on the protocol version: IPv4 or IPv6. IPv4 addresses, the most common, appear as four numbers separated by dots (e.g., 192.168.1.1). Due to the limited number of IPv4 addresses, IPv6 was introduced to provide a larger address space. An IPv6 address is longer and includes hexadecimal numbers separated by colons (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334).
IP addresses are categorized into two main types: private addresses and public addresses. Private addresses are used within a local network (like at home or in the office) and are not directly accessible from the Internet. Public addresses, on the other hand, connect a device directly to the Internet.
IP addresses play a crucial role in transmitting data over the Internet. When you visit a website, your device sends a request to the IP address of the server hosting the site. The server responds by sending the necessary data (e.g., the web page content) to your IP address.
However, to simplify usage, domain names (like www.example.com) are used instead of IP addresses. A system called DNS (Domain Name System) acts as a “phonebook,” converting domain names into IP addresses.
Finally, IP addresses can be static or dynamic. A static address remains fixed and does not change over time, while a dynamic address is temporarily assigned by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and can change regularly.
In summary, an IP address is an essential element that enables devices to connect and communicate over the Internet. Although it operates in the background, it is vital for the smooth functioning of modern networks.