![]() ![]() MAC addresses are usually represented by 12-digit hexadecimal numbers. IP addresses, available in static or dynamic modes, are managed and allocated by Internet registries and network administrators. MAC addresses are typically encoded by device manufacturers on network interface cards (NICs), managed by the IEEE. IP addresses uniquely identify devices globally on the Internet, allowing communication across different networks. MAC addresses function locally within a network. IP addresses reside at OSI model Layer 3 (Network Layer), providing unique identification for devices in a global network. MAC addresses are situated at OSI model Layer 2 (Data Link Layer), uniquely identifying devices in local networks. Key differences between MAC addresses and IP addresses include On the other hand, IP addresses are utilized to identify a device's network connection uniquely, and they may change with time and movement in space. MAC addresses are provided by NIC manufacturers, and they primarily serve to validate the physical address of a device, remaining unique and immutable. A MAC address represents the physical location of a device in a local network, while an IP address serves as the accessible identity on the global Internet. The MAC address acts on the second layer of the OSI model, while IP addresses operate on the third layer. MAC addresses and IP addresses refer to two different types of addresses used to identify devices in computer networks. Mac address vs IP address: What is the difference? Once an IP address is lost, effective network communication with other devices becomes impossible. In essence, an IP address acts like a passport if you want to communicate internationally, you must have an IP address. ![]() Without an IP address, communication with any device on the internet is impossible. When sending or receiving data over the Internet, the IP address becomes crucial. IPv6 was developed to address this issue, ensuring that every network device can have a unique address, supporting up to 3.4 trillion different addresses. While IPv4 can support a total of 2^32 addresses, the distribution of addresses has led to a shortage of unique addresses for all network devices. ![]() IPv6 addresses have a total length of 128 bits, usually organized into 8 groups, with each group consisting of 4 hexadecimal digits separated by colons. IPv4 addresses are typically represented by 32-bit binary numbers, expressed in dotted decimal notation, ranging from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255. IP addresses come in two versions: IPv4 and IPv6. It is an identifier composed of numbers and dot separators, designed to uniquely identify each device in a network. What is an IP Address?Īn IP address serves as a label in computer networks for identifying and locating devices. By analyzing MAC addresses, traffic sources and destinations can be identified, aiding in locating the source of faults and resolving network issues. Additionally, MAC addresses play a crucial role in network diagnostics and troubleshooting. They can deny or allow specific devices with certain MAC addresses to access the network, enhancing network security. MAC addresses can also be employed in Access Control Lists (ACLs) to regulate network access, restricting or permitting it as necessary. It's analogous to a unique postal code for each house, ensuring the accuracy of data transmission within a local area network. Starting from the left, 0-23 bit is the code that manufacturers apply to IETF and other organizations to identify manufacturers, and bits 24 to 47 are manufacturer-assigned unique identifiers for each device. Typically, a MAC address consists of 48 bits, represented by 12 hexadecimal digits. Each network device, such as switches, routers, etc., is assigned a unique MAC address. The MAC address is used to uniquely identify the physical address of a device on the network. This article will take you through a detailed understanding of what MAC addresses and IP addresses are and analyze the distinctions between them. Although they serve as device identifiers, MAC addresses and IP addresses have some differences in their application domains and working mechanisms. MAC addresses and IP addresses are both crucial identifiers in computer networks, ensuring effective communication between devices. ![]()
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