What Does a Private IP Address Mean?
A private IP address is essentially the identifier that a network router assigns to every device within its network. Each device within the same network has its own unique private IP address, also referred to as a private network address. This is how devices within the same internal network communicate with each other. A private IP address allows a system to communicate with other devices within the same network, facilitating the sending and receiving of information within the network.
Devices within the same network use private IP addresses to communicate directly with each other, even without an internet connection. Private IP addresses provide additional security within a network by making it difficult for external hosts or users to establish a connection. For example, they can be used in a home or office setting, allowing you to wirelessly print documents at home while preventing your neighbours from accidentally sending their documents to your printer.
Your router also utilizes your local IP address to direct internet traffic within your network. In essence, it ensures that search results are returned to the device you are using, rather than another device connected to the same network, such as your mobile phone.
