An IP address is a unique string of numbers separated by dots (in the IPv4 protocol) or colons (in the IPv6 protocol) that identifies each computer or device that uses the Internet protocol to communicate over the network.
Two types of IP addresses
IPv4. This is the most frequently used IP address. It uses a 32-bit address scheme, which allows you to get a total of 2^32 addresses.
IPv6. As the Internet grows at an unprecedented pace, IPv4 addresses are running out. The IPv6 protocol has appeared, which uses a 128-bit address scheme that allows you to have an almost infinite number of IP addresses.
Static and dynamic IP addresses
A static IP address. It remains constant and does not change. It is often used for web hosting or to provide easy remote access.
Dynamic IP address. Assigned each time the device connects to the network. It can change over time and is assigned from a pool of available IP addresses.
Why IP addresses are important
Unique identification. Just as houses have addresses, devices on the network have IP addresses. This ensures that data sent from one device will be received by the right destination device.
Routing. IP addresses help routers efficiently route traffic by ensuring that data packets are delivered to their destination.
Geolocation. IP addresses can provide information about the geographical location of the device.
IP addresses in the real world
Web browsing. Each time you visit a website, the device requests data from the IP address of the web server.
Online games. Gamers connect to servers using IP addresses.Remote access. IP addresses allow users to access their computers or networks from another location.