IP (Internet Protocol) Address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to every device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.

An IP address serves two main functions. Firstly, it provides a unique identifier for the device, which allows other devices to locate and communicate with it over the internet or network. Secondly, it specifies the network location of the device, helping data packets to be routed correctly across the internet or network.

There are two types of IP addresses: IPv4 and IPv6. IPv4 addresses are 32-bit numbers expressed in dotted decimal notation (for example, 192.168.1.1), while IPv6 addresses are 128-bit numbers expressed in hexadecimal notation (for example, 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334).

Typically, when a device connects to the internet or network, it is assigned an IP address by a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server. This IP address may change over time, depending on the network configuration and the device's settings. However, in some cases, devices may be assigned a static IP address that does not change.

What is Static IP address

A static IP address is a fixed, unchanging numerical identifier assigned to a device on a network. It is a permanent address that is manually configured on the device or assigned by the network administrator, and it remains the same each time the device connects to the network.

Static IP addresses are typically used for devices that require a permanent address for remote access, hosting servers, or accessing specific network resources. Examples of devices that might use a static IP address include printers, routers, servers, and network-attached storage (NAS) devices.

Compared to dynamic IP addresses, which are automatically assigned by a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server and can change each time a device connects to the network, static IP addresses provide several advantages. For example, they allow for easier remote access to network resources, more reliable connectivity for devices that require a consistent connection, and easier management of network devices.

However, static IP addresses may not be necessary for all devices on a network, and they can sometimes require additional configuration and maintenance. They also pose a security risk if they are not properly secured, as they can be targeted by hackers or malware looking to exploit vulnerabilities in the device or network.

Exact location of IP address

Determining the exact location of an IP address can be difficult, as the accuracy of the location data can vary depending on a number of factors. However, there are several tools and techniques that can be used to approximate the location of an IP address.

One of the most common methods is to use a GeoIP database, which maps IP addresses to geographic locations based on information such as internet service provider (ISP) data, mobile phone towers, and other sources. There are several free and paid GeoIP databases available online, and many web-based IP address lookup tools use this data to provide approximate location information.

Another method is to use a traceroute or ping command to trace the path of network traffic between your device and the IP address you are trying to locate. This can provide information about the location of intermediate network devices, such as routers and switches, that the traffic passes through on its way to the destination IP address.

It's important to note that the accuracy of these methods can vary, and they may not always provide an exact location. In addition, IP addresses can be spoofed or hidden behind a proxy server, which can make it difficult or impossible to determine the true location of the device associated with the IP address.

Conclusion

If we say in short, without IP address no device can be connected to the internet, it is mandatory for us to connect our device with IPv4 or IPv6 to use the internet on our device. Both static and dynamic IP addresses are useful for Internet access, and you will see similar search results on both.