Internet Protocol (IP) Address and Versions

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is an unique numerical identifier for each and every digital device connect to the network like LAN, WAN or internet. It help devices to identify uniquly and communicate with each node or other devices in the network.

Two widely used versions of Internet Protocol (IP)

1. Internet Protocol version 4: IPv4 is the 32-bit address system and most widely used foundational system for connecting devices on a network. It provide approximately 4.3 billion unique IP addresses, typically written in a dotted-decimal format (e.g., 192.168.0.1)
2. Internet Protocol version 6: IPv6 developed by the IETF, uses a 128-bit address, such as `2001:db8::1`, providing a vastly larger number of unique address.

Types of IP Addresses

• Public IP Address: It is visible on the internet and assigned by your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and unique on the internet.
• Private IP Address: Used within local networks (e.g., home, office or LAN) and it is accessiable from LAN but not directly accessible from the internet.
• Static IP Address: It is a permanent, manually assigned address remains the same over time.
• Dynamic IP Address: It is automatically assigned by a network DHCP server, changes periodically and is assigned automatically by the ISP or router.

What Information Can an IP Address Reveal?

It reveal the approximate geographic location (city/region), users Internet Service Provider (ISP), and the type of network using by the User. An IP address acts like a digital return address for your internet-connected devices.

An IP address can often reveal

• Approximate geographic location (country, city, or region)
• User ISP (Internet Service Provider) detail.
• Organization or Network that owns the address

However, it cannot directly reveal

• User name
• User exact home address
• User phone number
• Personal files or passwords

Common Uses

• Identifying devices on a network
• Routing internet traffic
• Hosting websites and servers
• Troubleshooting network issues
• Applying security measures such as firewalls and access controls