IP Address Definition: How It Works and Examples (2024)

What Is an IP Address?

IP address stands for internet protocol address; it is an identifying number that is associated with a specific computer or computer network. When connected to the internet, the IP address allows the computers to send and receive information.

How are IP Addresses Generated?

IP addresses are generated automatically using an integrated algorithm by the Internet of Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). IANA then allocates IP address blocks to regional internet registries (RIRs) who in turn geographically distribute these blocks to internet service providers (ISPs). To generate individual IP addresses for their customers, ISPs typically use a technique called Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). DHCP allows devices to have an IP address assigned automatically when they connect to a network.

At a more technical level, IP addresses are generated using two main versions of Internet Protocol (IP): IPv4 and IPv6. IPv4 addresses are 32-bit numbers, represented in a dotted-decimal format (e.g., 192.168.0.1), while IPv6 addresses are 128-bit numbers, represented in a hexadecimal format (e.9., 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334). By following the rules and protocols outlined by IANA, RIRs, and ISPs, devices can obtain unique identifiers for communicating online.

How do IP Addresses Work?

An IP address allows computers to send and receive data over the internet. Most IP addressesare purely numerical, but as internet usage grows,letters have been added to some addresses.

There are four different types of IP addresses:public, private, static, and dynamic. While the public and private are indicative of the location of the network—private being used inside a network while the public is used outside of a network—static and dynamic indicate permanency.

A static IP address is one that was manually created, as opposed to having been assigned. A static address also does not change, whereas a dynamic IP address has been assigned by a (DHCP) server and is subject to change. Dynamic IP addresses are the most common type of internet protocol addresses. Dynamic IP addresses are only active for a certain amount of time, after which they expire. The computer will either automatically request a new lease, or the computer may receive a new IP address.

An IP address can be compared to a Social Security Number (SSN) since each one is completely unique to the computer or user it is assigned to. The creation of these numbers allows routers to identify where they are sending information on the internet. They also make sure that the correct devices are receiving what is being sent. Much like the post office needs a mailing address to deliver a package, a router needs an IP address to deliver to the web address requested.

What Are the Different Types of IP Addresses?

Consumer IP Addresses: These are the IP addresses of individuals and businesses who use the internet. Consumer IP addresses could be either public or private addresses. Typically, devices use private IP addresses within a network and a public IP addresses outside a network. For example, each device within the same network is assigned a unique private IP address, whereas a public IP can be accessed directly over the internet and is assigned to your network router by your ISP.

Public IP addresses come in two types: dynamic IP addresses and static IP addresses.

Dynamic IP Addresses: A dynamic IP address refers to an address assigned to a device temporarily by an ISP. Dynamic IP addresses are typically assigned to devices such as computers, smartphones, or routers. They provide a level of anonymity and security as the IP address changes periodically, making it more difficult to track a specific device or user. When a device connects to the ISP's network, it is assigned an available IP address from a pool. This address is then borrowed for a specific duration before being returned to the pool and assigned to another device.

Static IP Addresses: A static IP address is a fixed address assigned to a device that remains constant. They are typically used for hosting websites or running servers. By having a fixed IP address, users can easily connect domain names to their servers, ensuring that their websites or services are always accessible. Static addresses are manually configured either on the device itself or by the network administrator. Static IP addresses are typically provided by the user’s ISP or network administrator, and typically come at an additional cost.

IP Addresses and Security Threats

IP address security threats refer to the risks and vulnerabilities associated with the security of IP addresses. Security threats can result in cybercriminals gaining unauthorized access to devices, launching attacks, or compromising a network’s integrity. Three common IP address security threats include hijacking, blacklisting, and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks.

Hijacking: IP address hijacking refers to attackers gaining control over IP addresses, allowing them to intercept and manipulate network traffic. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, or disruption of services. Implementing secure protocols, strong authentication mechanisms, and regular monitoring of IP address assignments can help mitigate the risks associated with IP address hijacking.

Blacklisting: IP addresses can be blacklisted if they are associated with malicious activities, such as spamming, malware distribution, or hacking attempts. If an IP address is blacklisted, it can result in restricted access to certain services, reduced email deliverability, or disruption to a network. To guard against blacklisting, users should consider implementing security measures such as periodically updating passwords, avoiding public Wi-Fi hotspots, and using anti-virus / anti malware software to protect devices.

DDoS Attacks: In a DDoS attack, multiple compromised devices flood a target IP address or network with an overwhelming amount of traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users. DDoS attacks can disrupt online services or potentially cause a network to crash. Implementing robust network infrastructure, traffic filtering mechanisms, and DDoS mitigation solutions can help protect against IP address-based attacks.

How To Protect Your IP Address

Protecting an IP address is crucial to ensure the security and privacy of your network and systems. Users can safeguard their IP address using firewalls, keeping software updated, using VPNs and enabling two-factor authentication.

Using a Firewall: Implementing a firewall protects your IP address from unauthorized access. Firewalls act as a barrier between your network and external threats, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined rules. Configure your firewall to block suspicious IP addresses and restrict access to suspicious sites.

Keeping Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and firmware to patch security vulnerabilities. Outdated software can expose your IP address to potential attacks. Enable automatic updates or regularly check for updates from trusted sources to ensure you have the latest security patches.

Use VPNs: Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt your internet traffic and route it through a secure server, masking your IP address. This helps protect your IP address from eavesdropping and unauthorized access. Choose a reputable VPN provider and enable it whenever you connect to public networks or need to access sensitive information.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Setting up 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts and devices. It requires users to provide a second form of authentication, such as a unique code sent to their mobile device, in addition to their password. This prevents unauthorized access even if someone manages to obtain your IP address and password.

Example of an IP Address

The dark web refers to encrypted online content that is not indexed by conventional search engines.The dark web has an illegal online market where criminals can deal in illegal and illicit goods. Many of these exchanges take place using the online cryptocurrency bitcoin, which makes it harder for the authorities to track and capture people participating in these transactions.

In 2018, after a yearlong government operation, agents working with the Department of Homeland Security posed as weapons dealers in order togain access to the computers of suspects who were trying to purchase weapons illegally. This allowed them to gain access to IP addresses, which they used to track down the geographical locations of additional suspects who were using the dark web.

This isn’t the first time IP addresses have led to arrests. In 2012, police used IP addresses to track down and arrest members of the hacking group Lulzsec. Using warrants to obtain information from the Internet Service Provider (ISP), law enforcement personnel were able to track down the physical addresses of the hackers and arrest them for their illegal internet activity.

The Bottom Line

IP addresses play a crucial role in identifying and facilitating communication between devices on the internet. They are generated automatically by IANA and allocated to ISPs who then assign them to individual devices. IP addresses can be categorized into public and private, as well as static and dynamic types. While IP addresses are essential for online communication, they also pose several security threats such as hijacking, blacklisting, and DDos attacks. To protect IP addresses, users can implement measures such as only connecting to secure protocols, regularly monitoring networks, setting up firewalls, installing software updates, using VPNs, and enabling two-factor authentication. Understanding how IP addresses work and implementing security measures help to maintain the privacy and security of your devices and networks.