IP Network

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What Does IP Network Mean?

An IP network is a communication network that uses Internet Protocol (IP) to send and receive messages between one or more computers. As one of the most commonly used global networks, an IP network is implemented in Internet networks, local area networks (LAN) and enterprise networks. An IP network requires that all hosts or network nodes be configured with the TCP/IP suite.

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The Internet is the largest and best known IP network.

Techopedia Explains IP Network

Each host is assigned a unique logical IP address, which distinguishes it from other nodes and helps initiate data communication with other hosts. IP network communication occurs when a host sends a data packet to another host by addressing its IP address. Similarly, the recipient identifies the sender by its IP address.

Moreover, an IP network requires that all connected devices – such as servers, switches, routers and other devices – be configured with the TCP/IP suite and have a valid IP address to perform any network communication.

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Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert
Margaret Rouse
Technology Expert

Margaret é uma premiada redatora e professora conhecida por sua habilidade de explicar assuntos técnicos complexos para um público empresarial não técnico. Nos últimos vinte anos, suas definições de TI foram publicadas pela Que em uma enciclopédia de termos tecnológicos e citadas em artigos do New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine e Discovery Magazine. Ela ingressou na Techopedia em 2011. A ideia de Margaret de um dia divertido é ajudar os profissionais de TI e de negócios a aprenderem a falar os idiomas altamente especializados uns dos outros.