What is an IP address?

Internet Basics
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An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to a device connected to a network. It allows devices to communicate with one another and helps internet traffic reach the correct destination.

Every time you visit a website, send an email, stream a video, or use an online service, IP addresses are working behind the scenes to make those connections possible.

Most people interact with IP addresses every day without realizing it. In fact, one of the most common reasons people visit WhatIsMyIP.com is to find their public IP address and learn what it reveals about their connection.

If you’d like a deeper explanation of how IP addresses work, be sure to check out our complete guide linked below.

Key Takeaways

  • IP addresses identify devices on a network.
  • They help route internet traffic to the correct destination.
  • Every internet-connected device uses an IP address.
  • IP addresses play a critical role in online communication.

Related Resources

Discussion Questions

  • When did you first learn what an IP address was?
  • What questions do you still have about IP addresses?
  • Have you ever used an IP address to troubleshoot a problem?
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One thing that often surprises people is that they usually have more than one IP address.

For example, your router may assign a private IP address to devices inside your home network, while your internet provider assigns a public IP address that websites see when you connect online.

Understanding the difference between public and private IP addresses is often the next step in learning how networking works.

What part of IP addresses was most confusing when you first started learning about them?

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Before I started working with networking and internet-related technologies, I honestly didn’t think much about IP addresses at all.

Now it’s one of those things I interact with almost every day, yet it’s still surprising how many people use the internet for years without ever needing to know what an IP address is or what it does.