Your computer has two addresses on the Internet: a permanent physical address, or Media Access Control (MAC) address, and a logical address, or Internet Protocol (IP) address . But with so many computers changing IP addresses all the time, how can networks associate multiple IPs with a single MAC address?
Enter ARP, formally known as the Address Resolution Protocol.
ARP’s job is to translate between a computer’s MAC address and its IP address(es)—a very useful function for any network. Despite its usefulness, however, ARP can also present several security risks, including those that can intercept potentially sensitive data.
But how does it all work?
In this article, we’ll explain what ARP is, compare it to other networking protocols, discuss phone number database philippines its different types and uses, and discuss the risks associated with its use. Learn more about this common but potentially risky networking protocol.
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What is ARP?
The Address Resolution Protocol or ARP is a common way for networks to Quick Signs translate between (or resolve) a computer’s IP address to its machine’s physical address.
Because these two addresses differ in length and format, ARP is essential for allowing computers and other devices to communicate across a network. To really understand why this is important, however, let’s quickly review these two types of addresses and how they relate to our everyday network models.