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There are two main types of IP addresses: IPv4 and IPv6. Many of us are familiar with the first option. The first post in this series included an interactive section where you could test IP addresses. Stay tuned for IPv6. The numbers may seem random, but did you know your IP address matters? It matters for our privacy and could also matter to external actors if they can gain access to our systems. I, however, am talking about what it could reveal. Is your IP address private or public? How much does that affect the number of IP addresses that can be on a network? How are IP addresses organized into classes? In this post, I'll focus on answering each of these questions. Structure of an IPv4 Address Follows a dotted-decimal notation Has four octets Each octet has a value between 0 and 255, made up of 8 bits Has a total length of 32 bits in binary form IPv4 Packet Format ...

Whenever you order at a fast-food restaurant, the cashier may give you a number or ask for the name on your order. When your order is ready, they will call your number or name so the correct person receives it. Similarly, devices on a network are assigned a unique number so information reaches its intended destination. This number is called an IP address. . . . Check Full IP IP Addresses are Unique Identifiers Every device on a network has an IP address that allows it to communicate with other devices. These addresses are unique within a network to ensure data reaches its intended destination. Imagine if two people had the same order number—there would be confusion about who ordered what. Similarly, without these identifiers, devices would not know where to send or receive data. Purposes of IP Addresses IP addresses serve several purposes, including: Routing: IP addresses operate at layer 3 of the TCP/IP or OSI model, also kno...

I have done a few posts on subnetting and the inner workings of DHCP. I wanted to do a post on IPv6 and a hands-on demo on implementing DHCP on actual networking equipment. However, I missed a few parts that I would like to cover that would particularly help in understanding how IP works and why it is needed. Unlike the previous series, this will be a direct approach to a certain protocol: Internet Protocol (IP). I recently started my first series, covering important ports, protocols, and acronyms used in the networking field. However, I realized not only is it difficult to address the ones to mention, but for some letters it's hard to find. The intended structure was to have several per letter not just one. The idea seemed fun and engaging, however, doing over 20 posts alphabetically on acronyms, ports, and protocols lacks order and deviates from the direct approach I want this blog to have. For that reason, I am putting it on hold indefinitely. It was fun at first, but it was not...

This series is especially for those studying for certifications , IT beginners , or anyone curious about how networking actually works. Welcome to the A–Z Protocols Series Whether related to legacy systems or cutting-edge technology , these posts will discuss some of the most pivotal protocols, ports, and acronyms used in the IT field. There's no better place to begin than at the start: the letter A. The acronyms chosen in this and future blog posts were generated from ChatGPT and certification guides, but I would love to include your input in what to discuss. A is for Access The following protocols discussed have some relation to how we access our networks, information, and other resources that keep us online. Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) - The Network Phonebook Imagine you are at a party, and you meet someone new. Let's say their name is Ben. You exchange numbers and you both make sure to save each other's contact info. Ben gives you his number: +1 (456)-1...

Image created by ChatGPT So far, I have finished two certifications: A+ and Network+. Do you want to know some of my favorite parts from studying for both exams? Protocols.  If you look at the exam objectives for any CompTIA exam, you will notice that there are many port numbers, protocols, and plenty (nailed the alliteration) of abbreviations and acronyms you could be tested on. It can feel like a whirlwind to remember each one. If that's not enough, some acronyms are spelled the same but have entirely new meanings. I mean think about when you hear STP, what do you think of first? Spanning Tree Protocol Shielded Twisted Pair I am starting a new series: an A-Z of Protocols, Ports, and Acronyms. I will go down the alphabet list discussing some of the most popular, useful, and historical terms used in the IT field. There will be:  Definitions  Examples  Demos  Troubleshooting Tips This is my first ti...

Image created by ChatGPT I recently rewatched an episode of The Art of Network Engineering where hosts Andy Lapteff  and William Collins  interviewed Muna Chimso about his dual experience in networking and programming. In their conversation, Andy asked a thought-provoking question:  "Why doesn't anybody want to go into networking?" It's a valid question. I have met people who struggle with networking, but that's not the point. Many are drawn to other fields: cybersecurity, programming, AI & machine learning, the cloud ... the list goes on. I reflected on the question for myself. What drew me to networking? Here are my 5 answers. Maybe you can relate. 1. Networking is everywhere Everything relies on a network. Think about it: our smartphones, operating systems, and driverless cars all rely on a network for communication. Because it is so pervasive, understanding networking can make troubleshooting quicker and easier. Improving your home network can be exciti...