IP address is a very old term as it is among the most basic elements required to be able to connect to any site over the internet. Although IP addresses are generally perceived as numbers that provide access to internet users’ information, they actually contain much more important and comprehensive functions. By learning the definition, types, working principle and other details of the IP address, you can have detailed information about this concept that you have heard for years.
What is an IP Address?
IP address stands for “Internet Protocol” and is a collection of device identification numbers for computers. The IP address, which distinguishes a device connected to the Internet from other devices, allows computers to connect to each other easily and seamlessly over the Internet. IP addresses, which can simply be defined as “identification numbers of devices on the Internet”, consist of four numbers separated by dots. These numbers, listed in different combinations on the basis of “0.0.0.0”, make it easier for devices to be found on the internet. Frequently encountered IPv4 and IPv6 form the core of the Internet’s standards-based working methods.
What are the IP Types?
There are two types of IP, static IP and dynamic IP. Static IP addresses, as the name suggests, are IP addresses that do not change and always remain fixed. Dynamic IP addresses, on the other hand, are IP addresses that can change each time you connect to the internet, and are created by the identification of numbers available at that time to your device by your internet provider. Static IP addresses are set manually by an administrator and are generally preferred for devices that act as servers. Dynamic IP addresses are automatically determined by the server software and assigned to the devices of users connecting to the Internet.
How Does the Process of Connecting to the Internet with an IP Address Work?
The working principle of the IP address consists of simple steps. All addresses known as websites are actually IP addresses. Websites that are connected to computers that act as servers are basically devices that connect to the internet. That’s why you often get server errors when you can’t connect to websites. This situation is not directly connected to your computer or your internet and indicates that there is a problem with the computers that make the IP address you are trying to connect, that is, the website reachable. Depending on all these, “Why do we access websites by entering a web address instead of an IP address?” you might think. The main reason for this is that IP addresses are complex and less memorable. That’s why you can always reach websites in a shorter and effortless way by using addresses that are much easier and catchy instead of different numbers. On the other hand, you can connect to websites whose IP addresses you know directly by entering their IP numbers.
What is IP Conflict?
An IP conflict occurs when two or more computers connected to the same network are assigned the same IP address. You can solve this problem by changing the IP address you defined, as it will create a connection problem when computers on the same network use the same IP address. For example; You can avoid IP conflict by changing the IP address from 192.168.1.20 to 192.168.1.30. In addition, although it is easy to access websites via IP addresses, it is very difficult to access your information through the IP address that represents your device. Most of the time, with the IP address, only limited information such as your internet provider and the city where your internet provider is located can be accessed. More technical knowledge is required. Knowing the details about the IP address will help you both solve the logic of connecting to the Internet and use the Internet much more smoothly and securely.
