Introduction
Every device that’s connected to the Internet has an IP address. Your IP address (short for Internet Protocol Address) is a unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a network. IP addresses are the key identifiers allowing information to get transmitted between devices.
IP addresses are unique identification numbers for any device (computer, smartphone, tablet) connected to the Internet. IP addresses help data packets reach the right device over the Internet.
An IP address consists of numbers separated by periods (IPv4) or alphanumeric characters separated by colons (IPv6). These numbers and characters are the address that helps data reach the correct destination.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll talk about why IP Addresses are essential, how they work, their types, and how you can protect your IP address from external forces and third parties. Let’s begin.
Why Are IP Addresses Important?
- IP Addresses help identify the devices connected to a network. They help distinguish one device from the other. The identification allows them to communicate with each other over the Internet.
- They’re essential for Data routing since sending or receiving data over the Internet is divided into packets. These packets are routed through network devices like routers based on the IP address. IP addresses make sure that the data reaches its destination.
- Internet services rely on IP addresses. If you want to access a website, your device will use the website’s IP address to get access to its content.
- IP addresses are crucial for network configuration. They enable devices to connect, determine how data will be transmitted and received, and help set up Network Protocols.
- IP addresses can provide the approximate location of an individual. While it may not provide an exact location, it can still help determine the country and the city where the person resides. This information can get used to provide content that is local to the individual and to present targeted ads to the individual.
How Do IP Addresses Work?
When a device connects to the Internet, it gets assigned a unique IP address. The data that is being sent or received is divided into small data packets that contain a source as well as the IP address of the destination. The routers analyze the IP address to determine the best path for the packets. The packets travel across the network, going from one router to another.
The IP protocol ensures the data packets are heading toward the correct destination. When it arrives at the destination, they are reassembled into the original data. The destination device sends a response using its IP address. IP addresses enable two-way communication between the two devices and ensure the data reaches its destination.
What Are The Different Types of IP Addresses?
There are four types of IP addresses which include public, private, static, and dynamic. Let’s go over them in detail.
Public IP Address
It is a unique IP address that is assigned to a device on the Internet. It allows the devices to communicate with other devices on the Internet. It is an IPv4 address and is reachable from the Internet. Your ISPs (Internet Service Providers) will provide you with a public IP address to access the Internet and other resources.
Private IP Address
Private IP Addresses are assigned to devices that are using a private network. These devices are connected to a local area network (LAN) or a home network. Private IP addresses are used to communicate with devices on the same network. You cannot directly access Private IP addresses from the Internet.
Dedicated IP Address
Dedicated IP Address remains fixed and does not change over time. The address stays the same unless a network administrator explicitly changes it. They are commonly used for servers and network devices.
Dynamic IP Address
A Dynamic IP address gets assigned to a device temporarily from a list of available addresses. Unlike Static IPs, Dynamic IPs can get changed instantly. A DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) assigns dynamic IP addresses. Dynamic IP addresses are more commonly used in residential or small business networks.
Why Should I Protect My IP Address?
The Internet is not as safe as we believe it, and cybercriminals are looking to get their hands on people’s sensitive and confidential data. Technology is advancing rapidly, and so is the ability of these cyber criminals to get what they want. They can easily trace your IP address to find personal information about you and track your online activities.
Cybercriminals can sometimes use your IP address to track your home address, leaving the victim vulnerable and exposed. They can also use your IP traffic to get information on your financial details. If they get a hold of your financial details, they can use them to carry out credit card fraud or other fraudulent activities.
Hackers can use IP addresses to breach security, launch malware attacks, steal confidential data, and gain unauthorized access to your network and devices. Third parties, such as advertisers, can use your IP address to collect data on your online activities to offer you more targeted ads.
How Do I Protect My IP Address?
Protecting your IP address helps safeguard your privacy, and security ensures that cybercriminals or other third parties cannot track your online activities. AstrillVPN helps protect your online privacy and security as it masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it impossible for outside forces to access your IP address.
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet connection. It masks your IP address and replaces it with the one your VPN server is connected to. Once your IP address is hidden, it secures your online privacy so no third party can use your confidential information against you.
Another way to protect your IP address is by using a proxy server. When you connect to a website through a proxy server, the server masks your IP address from the website. Whether you choose a free proxy server service or a paid one, make sure it is secure and reliable.
Conclusion
IP Addresses are essential to access websites, identify your device, facilitate data routing, and provide geolocation information. While they have their importance, cybercriminals can use your IP address to access your confidential data and steal sensitive information. You can mask your IP address and maintain your online privacy and security using a VPN or proxy server.
