What is an IP address?
What is an IP Address?
An IP address is a unique address used to identify a device on the internet or a private network. In other words, it is a digital identity in the online world. The term for IP address in our language is pronounced as “Internet Protocol.” IP addresses serve as identifiers that enable data flow between devices.
IP addresses consist of sets of numbers separated by periods. They follow a principle of four numbers. For example, it can be exemplified as ‘192.162.162’. Each number in the sets is expressed between 0 and 255. Therefore, IP addresses carry numerical values within the range of 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255.
IP addresses are never randomly assigned number groups. They are generated through specific mathematical methods by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), which is a subsidiary of ICANN. ICANN, a non-profit organization, was established in the United States in 1998 with the aim of ensuring the security of the internet as a platform. ICANN’s fundamental principle is to create a fair and universally accessible system for everyone to use. Source
What Are the Types of IP Addresses?
IP addresses are divided into different categories based on their operational characteristics. In general, they can be classified into two main groups: ‘Static IP’ and ‘Dynamic IP,’ with the addition of ‘Local IP.’ These are the most commonly used types of IP addresses today, and we can provide a clearer explanation under a few headings.
Static IP: This type of IP address, as the name implies, operates on a fixed and static principle. It is particularly preferred for accessing security cameras and hosting data on FTP servers. Static IPs can be obtained from internet service providers for a certain fee.
Dynamic IP: This is the most commonly preferred type of IP address nowadays. Its low security risk and easy accessibility are the main reasons for its popularity. Internet servers used in homes and workplaces can be examples of devices that use dynamic IP addresses.
Local IP: This type of IP address is used on individual computers that are not accessible to the internet. It can be considered as the offline version of a static IP.
Cybercriminals often carry out their illegal activities through IP addresses. They can exploit individuals’ or organizations’ IP addresses for various malicious purposes. Considering that IP addresses are considered as online identities, this situation can be described as the compromise of individuals’ identities in the hands of malicious individuals. For this reason, cybersecurity practices are of vital importance for internet users.
