When making use of the Internet, a process is developed in which a series of elements intervene that make it possible for data to travel through the network. For this reason, we must know what is, what is it for and how does the IPv4 protocol work ? due to its importance in telecommunications.
In this complex process, an interconnection system operates where several network protocols participate in order for communication to take place. Such is the case with the IPv4 protocol.
What is the IPv4 protocol, what is it for and how does it work?
The Internet and networks in general need an address that is provided by the protocols. In the world of telecommunications, two are known: Ipv4 and IPv6. On this occasion, you will learn about the characteristics of the IPv4 protocol and its relevance for establishing connections, so if you want to know what IPv6 is and how it works , visit the previous link
First of all, it is convenient to mention the meaning of IP address and IP protocol to understand its relationship with IPv4. Next, we present these useful terms in the world of networks.
What is the IP address?
The IP address is a numerical identifier that allows to establish a hierarchy in the network in a logical way. In this way, an IP address is assigned to all devices that connect to the network in order to facilitate intercommunication and allow the sending of packets to their destination.
The IP address can be fixed or dynamic. If the IP address is fixed, it means that the host will always keep the same address. Instead if the dynamic IP will be set based on DHCP (the dynamic host protocol setting).
The above is just a summary of this complex protocol, so if you want to know more about what TCP / IP is and what it is for , remember that you can visit our guide designed for it.
What is the IP protocol?
Every IP address corresponds to an identifier that is part of the IP protocol. The IP protocol is an addressing system known as IPv4 and IPv6 which are the currently active versions.
Both IPv4 and IPv6 are not directed to the connection, that is, they transmit data packets without knowing if there is availability at the other end, so the data arrives when the receiver is connected.
It is important to note that the transfer of data packets is carried out thanks to a process called “routing” which consists of finding the fastest route to the destination. Routing is the effective way that physical networks operate according to the OSI model.
OSI is a reference model that classifies network components into layers or levels. At layer two (data link), for example, switches operate. The IPv4 and IPv6 protocols work at Layer 3 (network) where routing takes place. In layer four (transport) the TCP protocol operates.
What is the IPv4 protocol?
Now that we know the most relevant terms around IP, the time has come for IPv4. IPv4 is the IP addressing system ; these are assigned automatically when a domain is registered.
What is the IPv4 protocol for?
The IPv4 protocol provides IP addresses for domains. In this way, the DNS (Domain Name System) is responsible for giving them a name on the network, although it is also possible to encrypt DNS traffic to avoid being traced .
How does the IPv4 protocol work?
The IPv4 protocol establishes 4-octet 32-bit IP addresses that are separated by periods and form up to 12 characters. These addresses can range from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255. The protocol bears its name due to Version 4 which does not refer to its evolution but to the header of the 4-bit protocol (0100).
The IPv4 protocol uses IP addresses to be seen throughout the network . These are external addresses that cannot be repeated and are extremely important for the processing and identification of data packets.
If you still have doubts in relation to all these network protocols, it is convenient that you learn more about what the World Wide Web is and how it works , in order to understand more how this digital age tool works.
