An IP address is a unique number that identifies a device on a network, like the internet. It’s how computers know where to send and receive data.

How it works

When you connect to the internet, your device gets an IP address, either permanent or temporary. Every request you make (like opening a website) carries your IP so the server knows where to send the response. There are two main versions: IPv4 (numbers like 192.168.1.1) and IPv6 (longer ones like 2001:0db8::1).

Analogy

Think of an IP address like a home address. If you order a package, the delivery person needs your exact address to bring it to you. On the internet, the IP address is your home address for data - it tells information where to go