In computer networks, IP (Internet Protocol) addressing is used to uniquely identify devices on a network. IP addresses can be either IPv4 (32-bit) or IPv6 (128-bit). IPv4 addresses are written as four sets of numbers separated by dots, such as 192.168.0.1, while IPv6 addresses are written in hexadecimal format, such as 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334.
Routers are networking devices that forward data packets between different computer networks. They examine the destination IP address of a packet and use routing tables to determine the best path for forwarding the packet to its destination.
Firewalls are security devices that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. They act as a barrier between internal networks and external networks (like the internet) to protect against unauthorized access and potential threats.