What is an IP Address?
A practical guide to the numbers that route every request on the internet.
5 min readBeginner friendlyUpdated 2026
The simple explanation
An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is the network label assigned to your device. It tells the internet where to send data so websites, apps, and services can respond to you.
Think of it like a mailing address: without it, nothing knows where to deliver information.
How IP addresses work
- You request a website or app.
- Your device resolves the domain to an IP address via DNS.
- Data packets are routed across the internet to that IP.
- The response returns to your device using your IP address.
Types of IP addresses
Public IP address
- Visible to the wider internet
- Assigned by your ISP
- Unique globally
- Example: 104.18.32.1
Private IP address
- Used inside private networks
- Assigned by your router
- Not routable on the public internet
- Example: 192.168.1.100
Real-world examples
Websites
google.com -> 142.250.190.78
github.com -> 140.82.121.3
my-ip.me -> 104.21.10.25
Home network
Public IP: 203.0.113.1
Computer: 192.168.1.100
Phone: 192.168.1.101
TV: 192.168.1.102
Why IP addresses matter
Communication
Devices use IP addresses to send and receive data across the internet.
Security
IPs help identify traffic sources and detect unusual activity.
Geolocation
IPs provide approximate location data for content delivery.
Quick knowledge check
What does IP stand for?
Internet Protocol.
Public vs private IPs?
Public IPs are internet-facing; private IPs stay inside local networks.
Can two devices share one IP?
Not within the same network scope.