Understanding IP Addresses
Every device on a network needs an address so other devices know where to send data. That address is called an IP address.
What You'll Learn
- What an IP address is
- The difference between public and private IP addresses
- Why IP addresses matter for communication
What an IP Address Does
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numeric label assigned to a device on a network. It works much like a postal address, letting data find its way to the correct destination.
Public and Private Addresses
Devices inside your home network typically use private IP addresses, only visible within that network. Your router itself has a public IP address, visible on the internet, that represents your whole home network to the outside world.
Example
A laptop might have the private address 192.168.1.5 at home, while the router presents a single public address to the internet on behalf of every device behind it.
Key Concepts
Key Takeaways
- An IP address uniquely identifies a device on a network
- Private IP addresses are used within a local network
- A public IP address represents a network to the wider internet
Knowledge Check
What is the main purpose of an IP address?