IP Addresses Explained

What is an IP Address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique number assigned to every device connected to the internet. It works like a postal address — it tells other computers exactly where to send data.

There are two versions in use today:

• IPv4 — four groups of numbers separated by dots, e.g. 203.0.113.1. Supports roughly 4 billion addresses.
• IPv6 — a longer hexadecimal format, e.g. 2001:db8::1. Supports a virtually unlimited number of addresses.

Public vs Private IP

• Public IP — assigned by your ISP and visible on the internet. This is what IPGu.net shows you.
• Private IP — used only inside your local network (home or office), not reachable directly from the internet. Common ranges: 192.168.x.x, 10.x.x.x, 172.16–31.x.x

What is IP Geolocation?

IP geolocation maps an IP address to an approximate physical location using registration databases — not GPS. Accuracy varies:

• Country level — generally correct
• City level — approximate, can be off by tens of kilometres
• Mobile networks and VPNs — may show significantly incorrect locations

What is an ISP?

ISP stands for Internet Service Provider — the company that gives you internet access. Examples in Thailand: True, AIS, DTAC, NT, 3BB. Examples internationally: Comcast, Deutsche Telekom, SoftBank.

What is an ASN?

An ASN (Autonomous System Number) is a unique identifier for a network operated by one organisation — such as an ISP, university, or large company. It is written as AS followed by a number, e.g. AS45758 (True Internet, Thailand).

ASNs are used by internet infrastructure to route traffic between networks. Knowing an ASN tells you which organisation controls the IP address you are looking at.