What is an IP Address?

An IP address (short for Internet Protocol) is a unique identifying address that electronic devices like computers, laptops, and smartphones use to identify and communicate with each other on a computer network.

Imagine an IP address as your home address in the real world. For letters and packages to be delivered to the right person, each house needs a unique address. Similarly, for data (like emails, images, web pages) to be sent to the correct device on the Internet, each device needs a unique IP address.

Structure of an IP Address

Currently, there are two main versions of IP addresses being used in parallel: IPv4 and IPv6.

IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4)

This is the first and still very common version of IP. IPv4 uses a 32-bit address, represented as 4 decimal number clusters (called octets), each ranging from 0 to 255, separated by periods. This structure allows for about 4.2 billion different IP addresses. This number may sound large, but with the explosion of Internet-connected devices (Internet of Things), the supply of IPv4 addresses is gradually running out.

IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)

To solve the problem of IPv4 exhaustion, IPv6 was introduced. This new version uses a 128-bit address, represented by eight groups of hexadecimal characters, separated by colons. This structure provides a virtually infinite number of addresses (about 340 undecillion). IPv6 is gradually being deployed to replace IPv4 in the future through a lengthy transition plan. However, these two protocols cannot communicate directly with each other, so the transition process will take a long time.

To delve deeper into the technical aspects, you can refer to Wikipedia for IPv4 and IPv6.

What is an IP Address used for?

The main role of an IP address is to ensure that the flow of information on the Internet is smooth and accurate. Specifically:

Without IP addresses, devices would not be able to find each other in the vast cyberspace, and the Internet as we know it would not exist.

Common Types of IP Addresses

IP addresses are classified into different types depending on how they are used and allocated.

Public IP

A Public IP is the main IP address that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) - such as Comcast, AT&T, Verizon - assigns to your home or business network. This is the address the entire Internet sees when you browse the web. All devices on the same network (computer, phone, TV) will share a single Public IP address when connecting to the Internet through a router.

Private IP

In contrast to a Public IP, a Private IP is an address used within a local network (LAN), such as the WiFi network at home, in an office, or at a coffee shop. These addresses are not directly accessible from the Internet.

Your router often acts as a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server, responsible for automatically assigning a unique Private IP address to each device that connects to the network (e.g., computer gets 192.168.1.10, phone gets 192.168.1.11, etc.). This mechanism simplifies network management and prevents IP conflicts – where two devices have the same address on the network.

With the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), the role of Private IPs has become even more important. From smart TVs, speakers, lights, to refrigerators, every device in your smart home needs its own IP address to communicate with each other and connect to a central system.

Static IP

A Static IP is a fixed IP address that does not change over time. It is typically assigned to servers, such as web servers, email servers, or security camera systems. The reason is that these services need a stable address so that users and other systems can access them reliably at any time.

Dynamic IP

A Dynamic IP is the most common type of IP address for individual users. This is an IP address that can change each time you reconnect to the Internet or after a certain period. ISPs use dynamic IPs to conserve their pool of depleting IP addresses. When you disconnect, that IP address is "returned" and assigned to another user. Dynamic IPs also provide a basic layer of security, as a constantly changing address makes it more difficult for hackers to target you.

However, sometimes Internet users might run into trouble with a dynamic IP when the address you've just received has been blocked by a website or service because the previous user engaged in malicious behavior or spamming.

Website IP Addresses (Shared & Dedicated)

For those who own a website using a web hosting service, there are two main types of IPs:

• Shared IP Address: Hundreds, or even thousands, of websites are hosted on a single server and share a common IP address. This is a popular choice for personal websites, blogs, or small businesses with moderate traffic.
• Dedicated IP Address: Your website gets its own private IP address. This makes installing an SSL certificate easier, allows you to run your own FTP server for file transfers, and enables access to your website directly via the IP address even before the domain name has been pointed.

Pros and Cons of IP Addresses

The IP address is a fantastic foundational technology, but it also comes with certain risks.

Advantages:

• Allows devices to connect and communicate globally.
• Makes accessing the Internet easy and seamless.
• Supports tight and organized network system management.
• Forms the foundation for the exponential growth of network technology.

Disadvantages:

• Personal Information Leakage: If attacked, your IP address can reveal your approximate geographical location (city, service provider).
• Leaves a Trail: All your online activities are logged along with your IP address.
• Risk of Attack: Hackers can use your IP to launch DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks, disrupting your internet connection.
• Risk of Intrusion: Malicious actors can scan the ports on your IP address to find vulnerabilities and infiltrate your device, installing malware.
• Legal Troubles: Hackers can use your IP to perform illegal activities (downloading pirated content, spreading misinformation), implicating you.
• Technical Issues: Problems like IP conflicts can occur on a local network, causing connection loss.

How to Check Your IP Address on Devices

Knowing how to check your IP address is a useful skill. Here is a detailed guide for each IP type and device.

How to check your public IP address (on phone, computer)

This is the easiest way as you only need a web browser.

1. Search on Google: Open Google and type in the search box what is my ip. Google will immediately display your Public IP address in the first result.
2. Use specialized websites: Visit sites like whatismyip.com or ipchicken.com.
3. Use Solann's tool: For a fast, accurate, and reliable result, use Solann's What Is My IP Address tool right away.

Note: If you are using a VPN, these methods will show the VPN server's IP address, not your real IP.

How to check your private IP address (on Android phone, iPhone, Windows computer, MacBook)

If you need to analyze any IP address in more depth (e.g., check location, provider), use Solann's IP address lookup tool.

Security Threats Related to IP Addresses

Cybercriminals can exploit your IP address in many sophisticated ways:

• Location and Identity Tracking: Attackers can combine your IP address with information you publicly share on social media (Facebook, LinkedIn) to determine your identity and approximate location, posing a risk to your personal safety.
• Direct Network Attacks: As mentioned, hackers can target your IP to launch DDoS attacks, which are especially common among online gamers.
• Device Intrusion: By scanning open ports on your IP, hackers can find vulnerabilities to take control of your device, steal sensitive data, or install malware.
• Using Your IP for Illegal Purposes: This is one of the most serious risks, where criminals use your online identity to carry out illegal activities.

How to Protect and Hide Your IP Address

Hiding your IP address is one of the most effective ways to protect your privacy and online identity. There are two main methods:

Other Protective Measures:

• Use a Firewall: Most operating systems and routers have a built-in firewall. Make sure it is enabled. A firewall acts as a gatekeeper, monitoring and filtering incoming and outgoing traffic to your device, blocking unauthorized access.
• Create Strong Passwords: Use complex, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi router and important accounts.
• Be Wary of Phishing Emails: Never click on suspicious links or open attachments from unknown senders.
• Update Antivirus Software: Always keep your security software updated to protect against the latest threats.

When Should You Use a VPN?

Using a VPN is a good habit to protect yourself in many situations:

Ready to check your IP address?