Numerical identifier assigned to devices on a network, enabling communication and routing.
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a numerical identifier assigned to devices on networks, enabling communication and routing. IPv4 addresses (like 192.168.1.1) are most common but limited in number; IPv6 provides vastly more addresses. IP addresses can be public (internet-routable) or private (internal network only). Understanding IP addressing is fundamental to network management and security—firewall rules, access controls, and monitoring all reference IP addresses.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
IP addresses identify devices on networks. Understanding IP addressing helps with firewall configuration, troubleshooting, and security. Know your public IP ranges and how internal addressing works.