If you’ve ever wondered how your computer knows where to go when you type in a website like ranjan.info, the answer lies in something called an IP address. While it sounds technical (and it is!), understanding it is surprisingly simple and incredibly useful — especially if you’re a digital entrepreneur, blogger, or marketer trying to make sense of how the internet actually works.
Let’s break it down.
📘 What Exactly Is an IP Address?
An IP address (short for Internet Protocol address) is a unique number assigned to each device connected to a network. Think of it like a digital street address that helps data find its way to the right place on the internet.
Every website you visit, every email you send, and every app you open that uses the internet is made possible because of IP addresses.
🧭 How Does an IP Address Work?
Let’s imagine you’re visiting ranjan.info. Here’s what happens:
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You type the website address into your browser.
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Your device first looks up the domain name (via DNS) to find its corresponding IP address.
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Once the IP is found, your device sends a request to the server that owns that IP.
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The server receives the request and sends the website data back to your IP address.
It’s a two-way street. You need to know the site’s IP to reach it, and the site needs to know your IP to respond.
🔢 Types of IP Addresses
There are two main formats of IP addresses in use today:
1. IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4)
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Most common format.
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Uses a 32-bit number (e.g.,
192.168.0.1). -
Limited to about 4.3 billion unique addresses.
2. IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6)
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Designed to replace IPv4 as the world ran out of IPv4 addresses.
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Uses a 128-bit format (e.g.,
2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334). -
Provides an almost unlimited number of unique addresses.
Most internet users still interact with IPv4, but the world is gradually transitioning to IPv6.
🏠 Public vs. Private IP Addresses
There are also two types of IP addresses depending on how they are used.
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Public IP: This is the address assigned to your device by your internet service provider (ISP). It is visible on the internet.
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Private IP: Used within internal networks (like your home Wi-Fi) to connect devices like your phone, laptop, and smart TV. These IPs are not exposed to the public internet.
Example:
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Your router has a public IP.
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Your phone and laptop have private IPs like
192.168.1.5.
🔄 Static vs. Dynamic IPs
Depending on your needs, your IP address might be:
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Dynamic: Changes regularly. Most homes and small businesses use dynamic IPs. They’re automatically assigned by your ISP.
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Static: Doesn’t change. Ideal for businesses that need a consistent IP (for email servers, web hosting, remote access, etc.).
At MeraHost, we offer plans that include dedicated static IPs, perfect for businesses and serious website owners.
📈 Why Should Founders, Bloggers, and Marketers Care?
If you’re running an online brand or business, understanding IP addresses can help you:
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Geo-target your audience: Track user IPs to offer region-specific content or products.
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Secure your services: Block suspicious IPs and whitelist safe ones.
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Host your website more reliably: Static IPs can improve SEO and uptime by ensuring consistent accessibility.
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Improve analytics: Identify unique users and traffic patterns by tracking IPs.
In a data-driven world, your IP address is more than just a technical detail — it’s a core part of how you connect with your audience.
🚀 Hosting That Understands IPs — MeraHost
At MeraHost, we don’t just give you storage space — we power your digital presence.
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Lightning-fast servers with optimized IP routing for better performance.
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Static IP options for businesses that require stable and secure hosting.
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Indian data centers ensuring low latency for your Indian audience.
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Support that speaks your language, 24/7.
Whether you’re launching your first blog or scaling an eCommerce brand, MeraHost helps you stay connected — fast, secure, and affordable.
🧠 Final Thoughts
An IP address might seem like a behind-the-scenes concept, but it plays a starring role in everything you do online. From delivering content to tracking traffic and protecting your site, it’s the unsung hero of the internet.
The next time you visit ranjan.info or any other site, remember: behind every click is a smart system of IP addresses quietly making it all possible.
And if you’re serious about your online presence, choose a hosting provider that understands how the internet really works — MeraHost is here to help you thrive.