What is an IP Address? Definition, Types, and Functions

Understanding IP Addresses

The definition of an IP address (Internet Protocol Address) is a series of binary numbers used as a unique identifier for each device connected to the internet or local network. This address functions as a device identity so that devices can communicate with each other on the network. In general, IP is a combination of numbers separated by a period (IPv4) or a colon (IPv6).

A simple example of an IPv4 address is: 192.168.1.1, while an example of IPv6 is: 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334.

IP Address Function

The function of IP address is very important in the operation of computer networks. Some of its main functions include:

1. Host or Device Identification : IP addresses allow networks to recognize connected devices, such as computers, smartphones, or printers.
2. Data Delivery Address : IP address facilitates data delivery between devices on a network. Each data packet sent will be directed to a specific IP address as the destination.
3. Managing Networks : IP addresses facilitate network administration by allowing access settings and monitoring of connected devices.
4. Location Tracking : With IP addresses, the geographic location of a device can be tracked, although with varying degrees of accuracy.

How IP Addresses Work

To understand how IP addresses work , it is important to know that every time a device connects to the internet, an IP address is assigned to it. This process can occur in two ways:

• Static : A fixed and unchanging IP address. Usually used for servers or devices that require a stable connection.
• Dynamic : An IP address that changes every time a device connects to the network. This type is more common because most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) use DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) to dynamically assign IP addresses.

When a device wants to send data to another device, the IP address acts as the destination address. The data is broken down into small packets that are sent over the network and then reassembled by the receiving device based on the destination IP address.

Types of IP Addresses

There are several types of IP addresses that need to be understood, including:

1. IPv4 and IPv6

• IPv4 : Uses a 32-bit binary number format, and is the most commonly used type of IP. However, as the number of devices connected to the internet increases, the supply of IPv4 addresses is running low.
• IPv6 : Created to replace IPv4 with a 128-bit binary number format, allowing for a much larger number of IP addresses.

2. Public and Private IP Addresses

• Public IP Address : IP address used to identify a device on a global network (internet). This address can be accessed from anywhere.
• Private IP Address : An IP address used in a local area network (LAN), such as at home or in the office. This address cannot be accessed directly from the internet without using Network Address Translation (NAT) .

3. Static and Dynamic IP Addresses

• Static IP : Permanently assigned to a device and does not change. Static IP is very useful for server hosting or applications that require a fixed address.
• Dynamic IP : Given automatically by the DHCP server and can change every time the device connects to the network.

How Are IP Addresses Distributed?

The distribution of IP addresses is regulated by an international organization known as the IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) , which divides the task into five RIRs (Regional Internet Registries) in various regions of the world. These RIRs are responsible for distributing IP address blocks to ISPs (Internet Service Providers) and companies in their regions.

When someone subscribes to an internet service from an ISP, the ISP will automatically provide an IP address to the user’s device. For local networks, routers often act as private IP providers to devices on the network.

Security Threats Related to IP Addresses

Although IP addresses are an important element in a network, there are several security threats to be aware of, such as:

1. DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks : These attacks can flood an IP address with fake traffic, making the service inaccessible.
2. Location Tracking : IP addresses can be used to track a person’s geographic location, although this is not completely accurate, it can still be a threat to privacy.
3. IP Spoofing : This technique allows attackers to masquerade as legitimate IP addresses, thereby illegally accessing data or stealing identities.
4. Identity Forgery : Attackers can use IP addresses to perform suspicious activities, and blame someone else for the assumed identity.

To overcome these threats, it is very important for us to use security tools such as VPN (Virtual Private Network) which can hide IP addresses and increase data security when surfing the internet.

Leveraging Blockchain Technology for Data Security and Transparency

Blockchain technology has become a promising solution in improving data security and transparency , including those related to the use of IP addresses. Blockchain, with its decentralized and transparent nature, is able to record every data transaction made, including the use of IP addresses in a network.

With blockchain , activity records using IP addresses can be more secure because they cannot be manipulated by unauthorized parties. This can certainly reduce the risk of spoofing and other cyber attacks. In addition, blockchain also allows every network activity to be recorded automatically, making it easier to audit and track if a security breach occurs.

So, IP Address Is…

Ultimately, IP address is one of the main components in a network that plays an important role in the communication process between devices. Without an IP address, devices will not be able to connect and exchange data. By understanding the meaning of IP address , how it works, and the threats that may be faced, we can use the internet network more safely and wisely.

Author: Faris Hadinata – Directorate of Information Technology Center