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IP Address
What is IP Address?
A device's unique number on a network, like 192.168.1.24. Computers use numbers; you use names.
Why IP Address Matters
Conflicting or changing IP addresses cause devices that 'randomly' drop off the network. Stable addressing is part of a properly set-up network.
Related Topics
DHCPstatic IPconflictssubnet
Related Terms
DNS (Domain Name System)
The internet's phonebook. It turns names like google.com into the numeric addresses computers actually use.
NetworkingRouter
The device that directs traffic between your devices and the internet — your network's traffic controller.
NetworkingDHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
The service that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices when they join your network — like a digital receptionist handing out room keys.
Networking