IP addresses and routing

All computers connected to a network, such as the Internet, require an IP address. Without an IP address, a computer on the Internet or an intranet cannot be located. IP addresses consist of four segments, separated by a period. Each segment has a range of 0-255. An example of an IP address is 120.52.17.13.

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Data routing

Routing refers to the most efficient path used to send data packets. The shortest path is usually the most desirable because it reduces the time it takes for a data packet to reach its destination. On smaller networks, the route is usually fixed, meaning that a fixed number of computers are involved in sending data packets. On larger networks, data packets are sent from one computer to another, until the destination is reached.

Routing tables are used when data packets are sent across the network. A routing table is a file that keeps track of the path that the data packet takes. The routing table is maintained by routing protocols. The routing table is comprised of the following five fields: