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Website explainer · 1:47

IP Addresses Explained: Network Addresses Behind Website Names

What is the numeric address behind a website name? An IP address identifies a network endpoint used for communication.

Jersey Web video: A name, or an address?

1:47 · No narration: the video shows each step as text on screen, and every step is written out below, with buttons that jump the video to it.

Download the on-screen text track (VTT)

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

  1. Step 1: Names help people find services

    A domain name provides a memorable way to address a service.

    On-screen labels: Domain name; Memorable address; Website service.

  2. Step 2: IP addresses support routing

    Network communication uses addresses to reach its destination.

    On-screen labels: Network address; Destination; Communication route.

  3. Step 3: IPv4 and IPv6 are different

    These protocol versions use different address formats.

    On-screen labels: IPv4 address; IPv6 address; Different formats.

  4. Step 4: DNS can connect name and address

    A and AAAA records provide the relevant address mappings.

    On-screen labels: Hostname; Address record; Resolved IP address.

  5. Step 5: An address can serve many sites

    The hostname and web-server configuration still matter.

    On-screen labels: Shared hosting address; Requested hostname; Configured website.

  6. Step 6: An address alone is not a test

    Check the intended website name, content and HTTPS result.

    On-screen labels: Correct hostname; Expected content; Valid HTTPS connection.

A practical check for your business

Identify the actual device or service an address belongs to before troubleshooting. A website name, a public address and a local network address are different parts of the connection.

Sources and further detail

Common questions

What is the numeric address behind a website name?

An IP address identifies a network endpoint used for communication. Check the hostname and service as well as the network address.

Go further

Guide Read the practical guide More context for planning and maintaining your business website. 5 min read → Jargon Buster IP address explained Read the related Jargon Buster explanation. Read the explanation →

Check the hostname and service as well as the network address.

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