Internet Basics

What Is an IP Address? IPv4 and IPv6 Explained

An IP address identifies a network endpoint so data can be routed to the correct destination. IPv4 and IPv6 are the two main address formats in use today.

Quick answer

Your device may have both private and public-facing addressing. The address shown by an online service is usually not the same as the local address used inside your Wi-Fi network.

How to troubleshoot

  1. Confirm whether the issue affects one device or multiple devices.
  2. Run a fresh connection test before changing settings.
  3. Check the router, signal strength and internet status separately.
  4. Make one change at a time and test again.

Why this matters

Good troubleshooting separates local device problems, Wi-Fi problems, router problems and ISP problems. That prevents unnecessary resets and makes it easier to explain the issue to support.

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