A Complete Tutorial About IP Address

Let us begin with IP Addresses.

What is an IP Address?
► An Internet Protocol address is a numerical label assigned to each device (e.g., computer, mobile phone) that is connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.

► An IP address is used for two purposes:
1) To identify whether the interface is host or network.
2) To determine the location of the device.

► IP Versions: IPv4 and IPv6.
Although IPv4 is the earlier version, it is the most commonly used version.

► IPv4 is a 32-bit decimal number while IPv6 is 128-bit number.

► IPv4 is normally written as four numbers between 1 and 255, each separated from the other by a decimal point.
This standard is called as DOTTED-DECIMAL NOTATION.

► Ex: 115.241.40.93

► There are countless IP addresses in today's world!

See for which purpose we need the IP Address------  

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What is the purpose of IP Address Classes?

Each IP Address Class provides the following information:

► Class A: First 8 bits → NETWORK ID & remaining 24 bits → HOST ID

► Class B: First 16 bits → NETWORK ID & remaining 16 bits → HOST ID

► Class C: First 24 bits → NETWORK ID & remaining 8 bits → HOST ID

► Class D: It represents a 32-bit multicast group ID.

► Class E: It is currently not being used. (NO need)

► For example,
Let us consider the IP Address 203.43.21.12
We know that it belongs to Class C.
Therefore, the NETWORK ID is 203.43.21 and the HOST ID is 12.