What does IP Address mean? HOw is it used?
IP address is your Internet Protocol address. Its kinda of like your street address but for your computer like how you put a return address on letters your IP address is recorded when visiting websites and posting things so the website operators know where your coming from. It is mostly used to prevent spam and abuse because web administrators can block an IP address if the user using it is abusig the site, etc etc.
IP stands for "Internet Protocol."
Think of the IP Address as the electronic equivalent of a street address. It's a series of numbers assigned to your computer so it can be identified on the network.
AOL's web server IP address is 207.200.94.2
Instead of typing in www.aol.com type in 207.200.94.2 and it will pull up the same web site.
Your computer also has an IP address. This helps identify you on the computer. When you visit a web site or do anything on the internet, the computer you are connected to knows where to send the information to because of your IP Address.
Like Shyloh said, it can be used by some administrators to block access to a site. But that's not its primary purpose.
For more information, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IP_address
Matt
To find information about what IP address means, you can simply use a search engine, such as Google, and type in "What is an IP address?". You will find many reliable sources that explain in more detail what an IP address is and how it is used.
An IP address, or Internet Protocol address, is a unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It serves two main functions: identifying the host or network interface and providing the location of the device on the network.
IP addresses are used in various ways. Firstly, they enable devices to communicate with each other over the internet. Each device has a unique IP address so that data can be sent and received accurately. Secondly, IP addresses are used for network administration purposes, such as managing and troubleshooting network devices. Network administrators can use IP addresses to identify and track devices on a network, monitor network activity, and troubleshoot any connectivity issues.
IP addresses are also an important component in the security of networks and internet communications. They can be used to track and block malicious activities or unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, IP address geolocation can be used to identify the approximate physical location of a device, which can be useful for various purposes, including targeted advertising, content localization, and enforcing regional restrictions on certain services or content.
In summary, IP addresses are essential for the functioning and management of computer networks and the internet. They allow devices to communicate with each other, provide a means for network administrators to monitor and manage network activity, and contribute to maintaining security and privacy online.