What is an IP Address: A Complete Guide For Beginners (2022 Update)

You may not realise it, but you are identified to the rest of the world by a numeric address every time you use the Internet, from checking your social media to playing games and chatting with friends. Your IP address, or Internet Protocol address, is this “address.”

IP addresses are used to identify hardware devices on a network. These addresses allow these devices to communicate with one another over a local network or the internet. Also, get to know the deep concepts of what is off-page SEO so that you can heighten the growth of your SEO activities on a daily basis.

We need billions of IP addresses to identify every computer, router, and website on the internet. At some point, we will run out of unique addresses, and a new IPv6 protocol has been created to address this need.

✅ Without further ado! Let’s get started……….

Have a look at what this guide entails

👉 What is an IP address?

“Internet Protocol” is the “IP” part of the IP address. The “address” part refers to a unique number that is associated with all of your online activity, similar to the return address on a letter. It all happens in a matter of milliseconds.

The Internet Protocol (IP) is a set of rules that govern the format of data sent over the internet or a local network.

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In essence, IP addresses are the identifiers that allow data to be sent between devices on a network; they contain location information in order to make devices reachable for communication.

There must be a way to distinguish between multiple computers, routers, and websites on the internet. IP addresses are a crucial part of how the internet works and provide a means of doing so.

👉 Why are IP Addresses Expressed as a Set Of Four Numbers?

A string of numbers separated by periods makes up an IP address. An IP address is comprised of four sets of numbers; an example address is 192.158.1.38. The set’s numbers can range from 0 to 255. As a result, the entire IP addressing range is 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255.

The fact that each number is actually an eight-digit binary number explains why it can only go up to 255. (sometimes called an octet). The number zero in an octet is 00000000, while the number 255 is 11111111, the highest number the octet can reach. In binary, the IP address we mentioned earlier (192.168.1.34) would be 11000000.10101000.00000001.00100010.

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The binary format is used by computers, but we humans find the decimal format much easier to work with. Even so, understanding that IP addresses are binary numbers will help us better understand why some things around them work the way they do.

But don’t be concerned! Please bear with us a little longer because we’re not going to throw a lot of binary or math at you in this IP article.

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👉 The Two Parts of An IP Address

The IP address of a device is actually made up of two parts:

Network ID: Starting from the left, the network ID is a part of the IP address that identifies a particular network on which the device is located. On a typical home network, where a device’s IP address is 192.168.1.34, the network ID is the 192.168.1 part of the address. The missing final part of the network ID is usually filled in with a zero, so the network ID of the device is 192.168.1.0.
Host ID: The part of the IP address that isn’t taken up by the network ID is referred to as the host ID. It identifies a specific device (called “hosts” in the TCP/IP world) on that network. Using the IP address 192.168.1.34 as an example, the host ID would be 34, which is the host’s unique ID on the 192.168.1.0 network.

👉 How do IP Addresses Work?

It helps to understand how IP addresses work if you want to figure out why a device isn’t connecting the way you expect it to or if you want to troubleshoot why your network isn’t working.

The Internet Protocol communicates in the same way that any other language does, by following a set of rules. This protocol is used by all connected devices to locate, send, and exchange data with each other. Any computer in any location can communicate with another by using the same language. Also, get to know the latest updates for the scope of digital marketing in 2022 so that you can build your digital career in the right direction.

IP addresses are most commonly used behind the scenes. This is how the method works:

Your device connects to the internet indirectly by first connecting to a network connected to the internet, which then grants your device internet access.
That network will most likely be your Internet Service Provider when you are at home (ISP). It will be your company’s network at work.
Your ISP assigns an IP address to your device (Internet Service Provider).
Your internet activity goes through the ISP, and they route it back to you, using your IP address. Since they are giving you access to the internet, it is their role to assign an IP address to your device.
Your IP address, on the other hand, may change. Turning your modem or router on or off, for example, can make a difference. You can also contact your ISP and have it changed for you.
When you are out and about – for instance, when you’re travelling – you take your device with you, but your home IP address does not come with you. As you will be using another network to access the internet (Wi-Fi at a hotel, coffee shop, airport, etc.), You’ll be using a different (and temporary) IP address, assigned to you by the ISP of the hotel, coffee shop, or airport.

As the process implies, there are different types of IP addresses, which we explore below.

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👉 Types of IP Addresses

There are different categories of IP addresses, and within each category, different types.

Consumer IP addresses

Every person or company with an internet service plan will have 2 kinds of IP addresses: private IP addresses and public IP addresses. The terms “public” and “private” refer to the location of a network; a private IP address is used within a network, while a public IP address is used outside of one. Get the best SEO services in Delhi if you are struggling to maintain your SEO ranking approach.

Private IP Addresses

A private IP address is a one-of-a-kind IP address assigned to each device that connects to your home internet network, including computers, tablets, and smartphones used in your home.

It’s also likely to include any Bluetooth devices you use, such as printers or printers, smart devices such as TVs, and so on. The number of private IP addresses you are likely to have in your own home is increasing as the internet of things (IoT) industry grows.

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Public IP addresses

Public IP addresses come in two forms – dynamic and static.

Dynamic IP address:

IP addresses that are dynamic are always changing. It is a temporary cookie that is assigned to a device each time it connects to the internet. ISPs purchase a large pool of IP addresses and assign them to their customers automatically.

Dynamic IP addresses can be traced back to a group of IP addresses that are shared by many computers. Another important type of internet protocol address is a dynamic IP address. It is only active for a certain amount of time before it expires.

A dedicated IP is essentially same as having your own unique identifying number on the internet, and it provides significant security benefits. By purchasing a Bluehost dedicated IP as an add-on, you can enjoy the benefits of dedicated IP security.

If you sign up for a Bluehost dedicated hosting plan, you can get one for free. Soon, you’ll learn how to purchase a dedicated IP.

The rationale behind this strategy is to save money for the ISP. They don’t have to perform specific actions to re-establish a customer’s IP address if they move home, for example, because the regular movement of IP addresses is automated.

There are also security advantages, as a changing IP address makes it more difficult for criminals to gain access to your network interface.

Static IP addresses

Static IP addresses, in contrast to dynamic IP addresses, do not change. A Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server will assign a dynamic IP address, which is subject to change. Although a static IP address does not change, it can be altered as part of regular network administration.

Static IP addresses are reliable and consistent, as they are assigned only once and do not change over time. This type of IP can also assist you in obtaining a great deal of information about a device.

A static IP address is not required for most individuals and businesses, but it is required for businesses that plan to host their own server. This is because a static IP address ensures the websites and email addresses associated with it have a consistent IP address, which is essential if you want other devices to be able to find them on the internet consistently.

This brings us to the next point, which is the distinction between the two types of website IP addresses. Also, if you’re looking for the best hosting provider for your website, blog, or online store, Bluehost can help you get started with a hosting plan tailored to your specific needs with 24/7 technical support.

Two Types of Website IP Addresses

There are two types of website IP addresses for website owners who don’t host their own server and instead rely on a web hosting package, which is the case for most websites. These are dedicated and shared.

Shared IP Addresses:

Websites that use shared hosting plans from web hosting providers are usually just one of many that share the same server.

Individual or small-business websites, where traffic volumes are manageable and the sites themselves are limited in terms of page count, etc., tend to be like this. The IP addresses of the websites hosted in this manner will be shared.

It’s used by small business websites that don’t get a lot of traffic or have a lot of files or pages. The IP address is shared with other websites and is not unique. Also, know how to use Hashtags effectively if you want to boost your social media engagement.

Dedicated IP Addresses:

A dedicated IP address is one that can only be used by you and your company via a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Everyone with this IP address has safe access to the network and secure access to company data — from anywhere in the world.

A dedicated IP address can be purchased with some of the best web hosting plans (such as Bluehost). This allows you to run your own File Transfer Protocol (FTP) server and makes obtaining an SSL certificate easier. Soon you’ll get to learn in this blog how this dedicated IP can help you secure your IP and from where you can access it.

This allows anonymous FTP sharing and makes it a lot easier to share and transfer files with multiple people within the organization. A dedicated IP address also allows you to access your website without using the domain name, which is useful if you want to build and test your website before registering it. Also, focus on a top content marketing strategy to help you establish measurable goals and get the desired conversion results.

Dedicated IP addresses help you avoid potential backlists caused by other users on your server’s bad behaviour. The dedicated IP address also allows you to access your website without using your domain name by simply typing in the IP address. It also allows you to access your website while your domain is being transferred.

👉 How Can I Check My Own IP Address?

The most straightforward way to determine your router’s public IP address is to Google “What is my IP address?” The answer will be displayed at the top of the page by Google.

Other websites will display the same information; they will be able to see your public IP address because your router has made a request and thus revealed the information by visiting the site. The site’s IP location goes a step further by displaying your ISP’s name as well as your city. Moreover, get to know how to generate quality leads and sales from your blog on a regular basis with less effort.

The platform and methods for locating your private IP address differ:

Windows Technique

👉(Method 1) to find your IP address on a Windows device:

Use the command prompt to get started.
Using Windows search, look for “cmd” (with no quote marks).
In the resulting pop-up box, type “ipconfig” with no quote marks to find the information.

👉(Method 2) to find your IP address on a Windows device:

Right-click on the Windows icon.
Select Network and Internet as your options.
Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on which you use.
Click on Network in the centre column.
The IPv4 number will be your address.

Mac Technique

👉(Method 1) to find your IP address on a Mac device:

Go to System Preferences
Select network – and the information will be visible.

👉(Method 2) to find your IP address on a Mac device:

Pull down the Apple Menu.
Select System Preferences.
In the View menu, choose Network.
In the left column, select Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
If you’re using Ethernet, your IP address will appear in the middle of the page.
If you’re using Wi-Fi, choose Advanced.
Select TCP/IP.
You’ll see your address listed under IPv4.

iPhone Technique

👉(Method 1) to find your IP address on your iPhone:

Go to Settings
Select Wi-Fi and click the “i” in a circle () next to the network you are on – the IP address should be visible under the DHCP tab.

👉(Method 2) to find your IP address on your iPhone:

On the home screen, choose Settings.
Choose Wi-Fi.
Select the network to which you’re connected.
Your IP address will appear at the top of the screen.

Android Technique

👉You can find your IP addresses on an Android device by doing the following:

Navigate to your Settings menu.
Choose About.
Select Status.
You should see your IP address listed.

Kaspersky recommends going into the router to look up the IP addresses of other devices on your network. The brand and software used by the router determine how you access it.

In most cases, you should be able to access the router by typing its gateway IP address into a web browser on the same network. Go to “attached devices” from there, and it should show you a list of all the devices that are currently or recently connected to the network, as well as their IP addresses. Get to know Top Digital marketing Skills to boost your digital career in the right direction and help you land in a high-paying job.

👉 IP Address Security Threats

Cybercriminals can obtain your IP address through a variety of methods. Social engineering and online stalking are two of the most common.

1- Online stalking

Criminals can use your online activity to track down your IP address. Your IP address can be revealed through a variety of online activities, from playing video games to leaving comments on websites and forums.

Once they have your IP address, attackers can type it into an IP address tracking website like whatismyipaddress.com to get a sense of where you are or your location. If they want to confirm that the IP address is associated with you specifically, they can cross-reference other open-source data.

They can then check LinkedIn, Facebook, or other social media sites to see if their location matches the area provided.

Cybercriminals can launch attacks against you or even impersonate you if they know your IP address. It’s critical to understand the risks and how to avoid them. Also, if you are wondering how to become an affiliate for the top brands then reach out to this complete tutorial regarding what is affiliate marketing to get started easily.

2- Social Engineering

The term “social engineering” refers to a wide range of malicious activities carried out through human interactions.

It employs psychological tricks to persuade users to make security mistakes or divulge sensitive information. Attacks on social engineering are carried out in stages.

Social engineering can be used by attackers to trick you into revealing your IP address. They could, for example, track you down using Skype or another instant messaging app that communicates via IP addresses.

It’s important to remember that strangers can see your IP address if you use these apps to chat with them. Attackers can use the Skype Resolver tool to find your IP address by looking up your username. If you don’t have enough time to begin and continue your advanced off-page activities the way we are recommending, you must seek the help of the top SEO experts in Ghaziabad.

3- Download illegal content under your IP address’ identity:

Hackers have been known to download illegal material and anything else they don’t want to trace back to them using hacked IP addresses.

For instance: criminals could use your IP address to download pirated movies, music, and videos, which would violate your ISP’s terms of service, as well as content related to terrorism or child pornography.

This could mean that, through no fault of your own, you may come to the attention of law enforcement. Also, get to know what is influencer marketing completely if you want to boost your branding effectively or want to become a top famous influencer.

4- Sell it on the dark web

Not every thief is out to make money by impersonating you. Some people are okay with simply taking your IP address and selling it on the dark web.

5- Tracking down your location

Hackers can identify your region, city, and state using geolocation technology if they know your IP address. They only need to do a little more research on social media to find your house and possibly break into it while you are away.

6- Track your activity

Not everyone wants to use your IP address for illicit reasons. Many employers will try to track your activities using your IP addresses, especially with the advent of telecommuting. Even if such practices aren’t technically illegal, they still violate your privacy. Also, learn what is lead generation thoroughly which will guide you to uplift your ability to get quality leads to boost your conversion rate.

7- Directly attacking your network

Criminals can attack your network directly and launch a variety of attacks. A DDoS attack is one of the most common types of distributed denial-of-service attacks.

This type of cyberattack occurs when hackers use previously infected machines to flood the targeted system or server with a large number of requests.

This generates too much traffic for the server to handle, causing service interruptions. It essentially turns off your internet.

While this attack is most commonly directed at businesses and video game services, it can also be directed at individuals, though this is rare. Because their screen is visible while streaming, online gamers are particularly vulnerable (on which an IP address can be found).

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👉 Top 5 Ways To Protect Your Privacy

1- Buy A Dedicated IP To Protect Against Infiltrators

Working from home becomes more common, and remote teams will benefit from a dedicated IP. A dedicated IP increases your protection against infiltrators, as you don’t share credentials with anyone.

A dedicated IP address provides security and high performance, to name a few advantages.

On a dedicated server, each site has its own IP address, avoiding the issues that come with sharing an address with other sites.

👉Is buying a dedicated IP address worth it?👈

A dedicated IP can be helpful for many different reasons—such as:

Allowing you to access your website when the DNS is not set up
It provides increased speed when the traffic load is high,
Let workers connect to company resources securely & don’t have to worry about security breaches.
The dedicated IP benefit is faster email deliverability.
You can visit your website by entering your IP address as you’re the only one using it which increased security.
Reduces the risk of IP blacklisting
Help you transfer files safer and quicker

A dedicated IP is essentially the same as having your own unique identifying number on the internet, and it provides significant security benefits. By purchasing a Bluehost dedicated IP as an add-on, you can enjoy the benefits of dedicated IP security.

If you sign up for a Bluehost dedicated hosting plan, you can get one for free. Soon, you’ll learn how to purchase a dedicated IP.

2- Change privacy settings on instant messaging applications

Other options include IP address hacking, which is frequently carried out through apps installed on your device. Cybercriminals can use instant messaging and other calling apps as a tool.

Using instant messaging apps allows only direct connections from contacts and does not accept calls or messages from strangers. Changing your privacy settings makes it more difficult for people who don’t know you to find your IP address because they can’t connect with you. Also, use Snapchat for business if you want to expand your social media marketing strategies to boost brand awareness and visibility.

3- Create unique passwords

The only way to prevent others from accessing your device is to change the password. Some people prefer to use the default passwords on their devices, which leaves them vulnerable to attack.

Your device, like all of your other accounts, requires a unique and difficult-to-guess password. A strong password is made up of a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numerals, and special characters.

This will help protect your device from being hacked via its IP address. Also, boost your off-page strategies by using top-quality high DA PA Web 2.0 Submission Sites which can help you get rich backlinks from authority sites.

4- Stay alert to phishing emails and malicious content

Phishing emails are used to install a large percentage of malware and device tracking software. When you connect to a website, you give it access to your IP address and device location, making it vulnerable to hackers.

When opening emails from unknown senders, be cautious and avoid clicking on links that may lead to unauthorized websites. Even if the emails appear to come from well-known sites or legitimate businesses, pay close attention to the content.

5- Use a good antivirus solution and keep it up to date

Install and keep comprehensive antivirus software up to date. For example, Kaspersky Anti-Virus, McAfee Anti-Virus, Norton 360, and other antivirus software protect your PC and Android devices from viruses. It secures and stores your passwords, and confidential files, and encrypts the data you send and receive over the internet using a VPN.

Protecting your IP address is an important aspect of online identity protection. Taking these steps to secure it will keep you safe from a wide range of cybercriminal attacks. Also, get to know how to start blogging from scratch if you want to earn money online with fewer efforts but with the right approach.

👉 Wrapping Up!

That concludes the discussion. I hope you find this comprehensive IP address guide to be both informative and useful. As you have learned here, what is IP addresses, their types, threats, and security solutions such as purchasing a dedicated IP address that can protect you from intruders and more.

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💬✍ Comment below and share your IP security tips and tricks so that everyone can benefit. Suggest the blog topics you want to read and get the latest updates.

Happy Learning!! 😃✌

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What is an IP Address A Complete Guide For Beginners (2022 Update)

👉 What is an IP address?

👉 Why are IP Addresses Expressed as a Set Of Four Numbers?