Understanding the Basics of Internet Protocol (IP)

What Is Internet Protocol (IP)?

Internet Protocol (IP) is a set of rules that govern how information is transferred over a network. IP defines the format of the packets, or data units, that are sent and received over a network, as well as the addressing scheme that allows devices to identify and communicate with each other. Without IP, computers and other devices on a network wouldn’t be able to exchange data.

Types of IP Addresses

An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to every device connected to a network. It can be thought of as a delivery address for data packets sent over a network. There are two main types of IP addresses used on networks today: IPv4 and IPv6. IPv4 addresses are the most commonly used and consist of a string of four numbers separated by periods, such as 192.168.100.1. IPv6 is the newer version of IP and consists of a string of eight hexadecimal numbers and four colons, such as 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334.

How IP Works

When a computer sends data over a network, it is packaged into a data packet. The packet is tagged with an IP address so the destination device knows where to send the data. When the packet reaches its destination, it is reassembled into its original form. This process takes place constantly in order for multiple devices to be able to communicate over a network.

Why IP is Important

IP is essential for the internet and other networks to function. Without IP, it would be impossible for devices to find and communicate with each other. IP provides the underlying structure upon which the rest of the internet is built.