An IP address, or Internet Protocol address, is a series of numbers that identifies any device on a network. Computers use IP addresses to communicate with each other both over the internet as well as on other networks.
IP addresses are as important as a person's unique ID card. They help ensure secure connections and enable users to explore the digital world confidently and creatively.
Every network-connected device has an IP address: laptops, desktops, IP phones, servers, websites—even toys connected to the internet.
There are four types: Public, Private, Static, and Dynamic IP addresses.
A typical IP address: 168.212.226.204 (decimal form of a 32-bit binary number).
The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) manages IP space and assigns them via regional Internet registries to ISPs and users.
IPv4 supports ~4.3 billion addresses. IPv6 is newer, supports vastly more addresses, and offers advanced networking features.
Your ISP assigns your public IP. You can sometimes change it by restarting your router or switching networks.
On the same network—no. On separate networks using private IPs—yes. Public IPs must always be unique.
Generally similar, though in some cases, IPv6 might perform slightly better due to modern infrastructure.
Major providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile use IPv6 for most of their network traffic.
They might spam or try to impersonate you. You can often resolve issues by simply changing your IP.
It can reveal your ISP, city, region, and sometimes more—though not precise personal info without legal access.
Not directly, but your IP can be linked to browsing history by your ISP or services you use online.