What is a Public IP
A public IP address is assigned by an ISP and can be accessed directly from the internet. It is globally unique and commonly used in broadband connections, cloud servers, and remote access scenarios.
- Pros: Globally unique, direct remote access.
- Cons: Limited availability, usually requires extra cost.
What is a Private IP
A private IP address is used within a local area network (LAN) and cannot directly access the internet. It requires NAT to communicate with public networks. Common ranges include:
- 10.0.0.0 - 10.255.255.255
- 172.16.0.0 - 172.31.255.255
- 192.168.0.0 - 192.168.255.255
- Pros: Free, reusable within LAN.
- Cons: No direct internet communication.
Main Differences
| Aspect | Public IP | Private IP |
|---|---|---|
| Uniqueness | Globally unique | Unique only in LAN |
| Internet Access | Direct | No, requires NAT |
| Common Usage | Servers, remote access | Home or corporate networks |
| Cost | ISP assigned, usually charged | Free |
| Quantity | Limited | Abundant |
Network Topology Diagram
The following diagram shows the relationship between public and private IPs: a router connects to the internet with a public IP and assigns private IPs to devices within the LAN.
Use Cases
Public IP: Hosting websites, remote access, cloud services.
Private IP: Home WiFi, corporate LAN device communication.
Recommended Tools
You can check your IP address or generate a QR code using the following online tools:
- IP Lookup Tool: Instantly view your current public IP.
- QR Code Generator: Convert your IP into a QR code for easy sharing.