Definition
IP is the abbreviation for “Internet Protocol”. The task of IP is the transmission of data packets on the internet. For this purpose, every device connected to the internet (e.g. computer, mobile phone, server, etc.) is assigned a globally unique IP address. There are two different types of IP addresses: static and dynamic.
Static and Dynamic IP Addresses
Static IP addresses are permanently assigned addresses. Dynamic addresses, on the other hand, are constantly changing. Some internet providers have a pool of IP addresses through which customers can dial into the internet depending on availability.
IPv4 and IPv6
IPv4 refers to the classic IP address consisting of a 32-bit number. This is formed with values from 0 to 255. However, since the IPv4 system is no longer sufficient with today’s usage, IPv6 was developed. This consists of a 128-bit number. From this, more than 340 sextillion (340 + 36 zeros) IP addresses can be formed.