What is an IP Address?
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique 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.
IPv4 vs. IPv6
You'll encounter two types of IP addresses:
- IPv4: The older, 32-bit format (e.g., 192.168.1.1). The number of available IPv4 addresses is limited and has largely been exhausted.
- IPv6: The newer, 128-bit format, offering a vastly larger address space to accommodate the growing number of internet-connected devices.
Privacy and Security
Your IP address can be used to track your online activity and determine your general location. While this is often used for legitimate purposes like content localization, it can also be a privacy concern. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a common way to mask your real IP address and enhance your online privacy.