What It Is
An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is the number computers use to find each other on the internet. Your web server has one, and so does your phone. People remember domain names, but computers use numbers, so DNS translates your domain name into the right IP address. There are two formats: IPv4, which looks like four groups of numbers separated by dots, and IPv6, a longer format created because IPv4 addresses were running out.
Why It Matters for Your Business
You rarely need to know your website’s IP address, but it comes up during setup and troubleshooting. When moving a site to a new host, the domain’s A record must be updated to the new server’s IP address, or visitors keep reaching the old one. IP addresses can also carry a reputation. A server address associated with spam can affect email from that server.
Good to Know
If your site changes hosts or servers, write down both the old and new IP addresses and confirm your DNS records point to the new one. Do not cancel the old hosting until you have confirmed traffic and email are flowing to the new server. Your office internet connection also has an IP address, which your developer might ask for to allow access to a protected area.