Introduction
Internet Protocol (IP) is a set of rules that governs how data is sent and received over the internet or a local network. It is part of the TCP/IP suite and is responsible for addressing, routing, and delivering packets of data between computers.
Functions of IP
- Assigns unique IP addresses to each device on the network
- Routes data from the source to the correct destination
- Breaks data into packets for transmission
Types of IP Addresses
1. IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4)
Uses 32-bit addresses, written in the format like 192.168.1.1. It supports about 4.3 billion devices.
2. IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)
Uses 128-bit addresses, written in hexadecimal format, and can support a much larger number of devices (virtually unlimited).
Static vs. Dynamic IP
- Static IP: Manually assigned and does not change
- Dynamic IP: Automatically assigned by DHCP and can change over time
Conclusion
IP is a crucial part of modern networking. It ensures that data is correctly addressed and reaches the intended destination, forming the backbone of internet communication.