For billions of computer users worldwide, almost all of them don’t know a thing or two about IP addresses. What is its definition? What is an IP address for? Does knowing the basics about IP address matter? Don’t worry; we’ll answer these questions as we learn the basics of IP address.
Studies have found that 98% of computer users from all over the world don’t know what an IP address is. Now, the question is “how to find my IP address”? Well, let’s put you way ahead of the curve and read this article as we list the necessary things to know about an IP address, such as its types and purpose.
What’s an IP Address And Where Can You Find It?
The IP is an acronym for Internet Protocol, which enables you to describe the connection between two devices or computers and how they communicate. Every computer uses it as a way for the internet to figure out where to send emails, data, and even memes.
The modern computer has developed the Internet Protocol Address to allow a connection between two computers. This certain connection allows the two devices to transmit data via the internet.
People often type in how to find my IP address in Google to make sure they get steps right, and it is easy once you get the hang of it. Here are a few basic steps to find your IP address. First, hit start, then click on the Control Panel. This is where you’ll find the Network and Internet section. Click on that to proceed to the Network and Sharing Center then go to Details. This will command your computer to display your IP address. It’s that easy.
Kinds of IP Addresses
There are four kinds of IP Addresses. The first two types are public and private secure IP addresses. The term “public” and “private” indicates the location of the network. The private secure IP address tells the user that the computer is connected within a network while a public IP address suggests that a computer is connected outside of a network.
The next two types are identified as a static and dynamic IP address. These terms stipulate permanency. A static IP address is permanent, and it cannot be changed. It suggests that it is manually created rather than being assigned. On the other hand, a dynamic type IP address can be changed as opposed to the previous type. It is assigned by a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server. This is also the most common type of internet protocol address.
Don’t Get Attached To It.
Remember the saying that change is the only constant in this world? Well, this applies to your IP address, so don’t get too attached to it. As you’re sitting on your couch having a good laugh at memes or watching a lifestyle vlog on YouTube, your Internet service provider assigns an IP address to your device.
Your internet service provider is the one allowing you to access the internet, so all your internet usage goes through them and translates it back to your IP. This assigned IP address is not yours, and it changes even with a simple activity such as turning your router on and off. Also, your internet service provider may change it for you only if you ask them nicely.
Takeaway
Now that you know the basics of an IP address, its purpose is not a mystery for most computer users from around the world. IP addresses have led to countless arrests on an online black market called the Dark Web. Online criminals are using this platform for selling illicit drugs, guns, and ammunition.
Some of these illegal exchanges have been busted by gaining access to the culprits’ IP addresses, which the authorities used to hunt down their exact location. Other illegal activities such as hacking, are one of the many common crimes on the Dark Web. Law enforcement personnel have used warrants to obtain information from the Internet Service Provider (ISP) to arrest hackers for illegal internet activities.
These are just some of the basic pieces of information you never thought you needed about IP addresses if you need to know more, research on some of the most amazing things you can do with your IP address.
