How does IP address work?

An Internet Protocol address (IP address) is a numerical label assigned to each device (e.g., computer, printer) participating in a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IP_address

What does IP Address do and its uses?

An IP Address identifies the identity of a computer network and its location. Because locational and network identity of users are exposed, online businesses may have an insight as to what are the demographics of users , and how their buying behavior is affecting the business. Other purpose(s) of IP addresses are to identify the perperators of computer crimes, and online fraud in online dealings.

Types of IP Addresses

Static IP Address

Static IP address are IP addresses that do not change every time a user logs on. Static IP addresses are more reliable when used as a host on server file upload and downloads.

Dynamic IP Address

Dynamic IP addresses are IP addresses that change every time a user logs on. Dynamic IP addresses are primarily used by small businesses and also for home use.

How does an IP address look?

IP addresses has this kind of structure: zzz.yyy.xxx.www. ZZZ and YYY pertains to Network code, while XXX and WWW pertains to the host network. ZZZ,YYY,XXX, and WWW are numbers that may range from 0 to 255. Example is 10.200.40.10.

Getting your IP Address

Looking up your IP address may be easy. Just go to whatismyip.com and you will see there your IP address.

How to change your IP address?

If you are using Dynamic IP addresses, there is no need for you change your IP, It changes every time you log in. However, for Static IP users, you need to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to change your IP address temporarily. Also, Proxies could also be used to hide your ip.

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