What is an IP Address?
The Internet Protocol Address, commonly referred to as an IP Address, is the numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It is a unique identifier that enables all devices connected to form a global, distributed network. Every device has its own individual IP Address, and it is responsible for identifying each device and keeping track of who is connected to the network and to which device.
IP Addresses were created as an alternative to physical addresses, such as street addresses, which became obsolete as the internet became more widely used. IP Addresses use a unique set of numbers to identify each device, so there is no need to remember a street address or name of each machine.
Why do We Need IP Addresses?
IP Addresses are used to identify each machine connected to the network. Without them, communication between two computers would be impossible. Network routers and switches rely on IP Addresses to correctly route data packets to their destination. The IP Address is also used to track activity on the network, locate security breaches, and monitor traffic. In addition, it is important for keeping track of the bandwidth used by each device.
IP version 4 (IPv4) is the most widely used version of IP Addresses and is composed of 4 sets of numbers, separated by dots. For example, a typical IPv4 address might look something like this: 192.̶168.0.1 ̶.
The latest version of IP Addresses is IPv6, which is made up of 8 sets of hexadecimal numbers. It was created to address the growing shortage of IPv4 Addresses, and is now being used by many organizations to provide more available IP Addresses.
How do IP Addresses Work?
IP Addresses are used to uniquely identify each device. When two devices communicate, the IP Address of each device helps them to connect. The IP Address is sent along with the data packets sent over the Internet, so that the receiving computer can identify the sender; the IP Address also allows for data packets to be routed in an efficient manner.
To stay secure, IP Addresses must remain hidden from the public. This is usually done through the use of a Nat (Network Address Translation) service, which acts as a gateway between the public and private networks, allowing traffic to pass in both directions.
Conclusion
IP Addresses are an integral part of the Internet and are used to identify each device connected to the network. They allow data packets to be routed correctly, enabling communication between devices. It is important to keep IP Addresses secure, which is done through the use of a Network Address Translation service. Without IP Addresses, the internet as we know it wouldn’t exist.