What is an IP Address?
IP stands for Internet Protocol. Think of it as the digital address of your home or office. Just as you need a physical address to receive mail, your computer, smartphone, or any connected device needs an IP address to send and receive data on the internet.
Without an IP, servers (like Google or Facebook) wouldn't know where to send the information you requested, such as the web page you are reading right now.
Fact
There are two main types of IP addresses: Public (like the ones shown above: IPv4/IPv6, used to communicate with the outside world) and Private (used only within your local Wi-Fi network to connect your devices to each other).
Difference between IPv4 and IPv6
You might notice that your IP address looks like a series of four numbers separated by dots (e.g., 192.168.1.1) or a long, complex sequence of letters and numbers. This is because there are two versions of the protocol:
- IPv4 (Version 4): The older and most common standard. It uses a 32-bit format, allowing for about 4.3 billion unique addresses. As the internet grows, these addresses are running out.
- IPv6 (Version 6): The new standard created to solve the IPv4 shortage. It uses 128 bits, allowing for a virtually infinite number of addresses. It is more secure and efficient.
Is my exact location visible?
Not exactly. The location provided by an IP tool is based on the geolocation of your Internet Service Provider's (ISP) node.
Usually, this points to the city or region where your provider's server is located, not your doorstep. While it's accurate enough for websites to know your country or state, it is not precise enough to track your exact physical location in real time without legal processes with the provider.
Why does my IP change?
Most residential internet providers use Dynamic IPs. This means your address can change periodically, or every time you restart your modem. Static IPs are typically paid extra services, used mainly by businesses that need to host servers or security cameras.