In the world of the Internet, everything starts with an IP address. It allows your computer, smartphone, or proxy server to connect to the global network. Today, we’ll explore what IPv4 is, how it works, its advantages, limitations, and why it still plays a key role in network communications — even in 2025.
What is IPv4?
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) is a set of rules that defines how devices exchange data within a network, including the Internet. It’s like the language that devices use to “communicate” with each other.
Each device gets a unique IP address that helps other devices find it and transmit information. IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses, allowing for around 4.3 billion unique IP addresses. Today, that’s not enough — which is why the transition to IPv6 has begun. Still, IPv4 remains the most widely used standard, especially in the field of IPv4 proxy sales.
What Does an IPv4 Address Look Like?
An IPv4 address consists of four numbers separated by dots, such as: 192.168.1.1. Each number is called an octet and ranges from 0 to 255. This structure helps identify both the network and the specific device within that network.
- Network part (NetID) — the first octets that define the network.
- Host part (HostID) — the rest, which identify the individual device.
What is a Subnet Mask?
A subnet mask defines how many bits of the IP address are allocated to the network and how many to the devices. The most common mask: 255.255.255.0 — indicates that the first three octets belong to the network, and the last one to the devices.
How Does IPv4 Work?
IPv4 performs several important functions:
1. Fragmentation
If a data packet is too large — IPv4 splits it into smaller parts. The receiver then reassembles them into a complete packet.
2. Service Handling
IPv4 allows prioritization of traffic using QoS (Quality of Service) and DiffServ. This is especially useful for video conferencing or online gaming.
3. Routing
The protocol manages the path packets take from sender to recipient. It works like a navigator in the world of the Internet.
4. NAT (Network Address Translation)
IPv4 allows a single public IP address to serve dozens of devices on a local network. This reduces the load on the limited address pool.
5. End-to-End Delivery
Each device has a unique address. Thanks to this, IPv4 ensures reliable data exchange between any two points in the network.
Advantages of IPv4
- Simplicity and Efficiency: Small packet headers allow fast processing by routers.
- Universal Compatibility: IPv4 is supported by almost all devices and services.
- Proven Technology: Decades of use have made IPv4 a reliable solution.
- Broadcast Support: Ability to send messages to all devices on a network at once.
Main Problems of IPv4
Limited Address Capacity
With 4.3 billion addresses, the Internet can no longer keep up. With the growth of IoT, smartphones, and smart devices, addresses are running out. This drives demand for IPv4 proxies, especially in automation, SEO, and scraping.
Lack of Built-in Security
IPv4 was developed before modern cyber threats. That makes it vulnerable to attacks like IP spoofing or DoS. Today, additional security protocols like IPSec are used.
Complex Routing
As networks grow, so do routing table entries, affecting speed and performance.
What Are IPv4 Proxies and Why Are They Needed?
IPv4 proxies act as intermediaries between your device and the Internet, using IPv4 addresses to ensure anonymity, access restricted resources, or enable multiple connections from different IPs. When you connect to a website through an IPv4 proxy, the request is routed through another server instead of directly.
Advantages of IPv4 Proxies:
- Maximum Compatibility: 99% of websites and services support IPv4.
- Reliability and Stability: A time-tested technology.
- Scalability: Ability to get a large number of unique IPs for any task.
- Suitable for Any Purpose: From SEO and scraping to ads, bots, and working with marketplaces.
Conclusion:
IPv4 remains the foundation of global networking and will stay relevant for years to come. On our platform, you can buy high-speed, reliable IPv4 proxies with full support. They are ideal for parsing, social media, multi-accounting, and other tasks. View pricing and choose your IPv4 proxy.
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