WHAT IS IP ADDRESS ?

An Internet Protocol address (IP address) is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the internet protocol for communication. An IP address serves two main functions: host or network interface identification and location addressing.

An IP address is a string of numbers separated by periods. IP addresses are expressed as a set of four numbers — an example address might be 192.158.1.38. Each number in the set can range from 0 to 255. So, the full IP addressing range goes from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255.

How do IP addresses work

The use of IP addresses typically happens behind the scenes. The process works like this:

1. your device indirectly connects to the internet by connecting at first to a network connected to the internet, which then grants your device access to the internet.
2. when you are at home, that network will probably be your internet service provider (ISP). At work, it will be your company network. 
3. Your IP address is assigned to your device by your ISP.
4. Your internet activity goes through the ISP, and they route it back to you, using your IP address. Since they are giving you access to the internet, it is their role to assign an IP address to your device.
5. However, your IP address can change. For example, turning your modem or router on or off can change it. Or you can contact your ISP, and they can change it for you.
6. When you are out and about - for example, travelling - and you take your device with you, your home IP address does not come with you. This is because you will be using another network (Wi-Fi at a hotel, airport, or coffee shop, etc.) to access the internet and will be using a different (and temporary) IP address, assigned to you by the ISP of the hotel, airport or coffee shop.