Networking & Internet
IP Address
Definition
An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It serves two main functions: host or network interface identification and location addressing.
Why It Matters
The IP address is how devices on the internet find and communicate with each other. It is the fundamental addressing system of the internet, similar to a street address for a house.
Contextual Example
When you visit a website, your computer sends a request to the website's IP address (e.g., 142.250.184.238). The web server then sends the website data back to your computer's IP address.
Common Misunderstandings
- IPv4 is the older version (e.g., 192.168.1.1) and is running out of addresses. IPv6 is the new version, which has a much larger address space.
- A "public" IP address is unique on the internet, while a "private" IP address is used within a local network (like your home Wi-Fi) and is not reachable from the outside world.