IP

IP (Internet Protocol) is a fundamental networking protocol that defines how data packets are addressed and routed across networks, including the internet. It provides a logical addressing system (IP addresses) to uniquely identify devices and enables communication between them by specifying rules for packet structure, transmission, and delivery.

Also known as: Internet Protocol, IP Address, IP Networking, IPv4, IPv6

Why learn IP?

Developers should learn IP because it underpins all internet and network-based applications, such as web services, APIs, and cloud computing. Understanding IP is essential for tasks like network configuration, troubleshooting connectivity issues, implementing security measures (e.g., firewalls), and optimizing performance in distributed systems.

Learning Resources

• docs: Internet Protocol - Wikipedia
• tutorial: Introduction to IP - Cisco Networking Basics
• course: IP Addressing and Subnetting - Coursera Course
• video: What is an IP Address? - YouTube Video by PowerCert