At the heart of Internet system lies IPv4, a fundamental component that facilitates the exchange of data packets across networks worldwide. But what exactly it is, and why is it so essential to the functioning of the modern internet?
What is IPv4?
IPv4, or Internet Protocol version 4, is a foundational protocol used for identifying and routing data packets across networks. It assigns a unique numerical label, known as an IP address, to each device connected to a network. These IP addresses serve as virtual addresses, enabling devices to locate and communicate with one another on the internet.
An IPv4 address consists of a 32-bit binary number, typically represented in decimal format for human readability. The decimal representation is divided into four 8-bit segments, known as octets, separated by periods. For example, an IPv4 address might appear as “192.168.1.1”.
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