Difference between ISP and IP


ISP and IP are two separate concepts associated with the way the internet works. An ISP is a company that provides internet access to end customers, whereas an IP is a technology that allows data transmission over the internet and assigns unique IDs to devices that connect to it.

Read this article to find out more about ISP and IP and how they are different from each other.

What is ISP?

ISPs provide a range of services, including −

  • Internet connectivity − ISPs provide internet connectivity through wired or wireless networks. Customers are connected to the internet through technologies such as DSL, cable, fibre optics, satellite, and wireless.

  • Email − Many Internet service providers (ISPs) provide email services to their customers, allowing them to send and receive emails using their own domain names.

  • Web hosting − ISPs may offer web hosting services, which allow clients to host their own websites on the servers of the ISP.

  • Domain name registration − ISPs can also register domain names on their clients' behalf, allowing them to establish an online presence with an individual domain name.

ISPs may provide various internet plans based on the speed and amount of data used. They might also provide other services like virtual private networks (VPNs) and cloud storage.

Government agencies regulate ISPs and subject them to rules regulating privacy, data protection, and network neutrality. The concept of network neutrality states that all internet traffic should be handled similarly, with no discrimination or preference given to specific categories of data or customers.

What is IP?

IP (Internet Protocol) is a protocol that allows communication between internet- connected devices. It is a unique numerical identification provided to each internet-connected device that acts as a means of identifying the device and routing data packets across networks.

IP addresses can be static (fixed) or dynamic (changing). A static IP address is the same every time a device connects to the internet, whereas a dynamic IP address can change every time a device connects.

The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) and Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) are two organisations in charge of allocating IP numbers. IP addresses are generally assigned to consumers by ISPs.

IP addresses are used to transport data packets across networks and enable device connections. When a device delivers data over the internet, it is divided into small packets, each with its own unique IP address. These packets are then routed through numerous network routers until they arrive at their destination device and are reassembled into the original data.

IP addresses also allow devices to connect with one another through various protocols, such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol). These protocols are responsible for ensuring that data is reliably and efficiently delivered between devices.

Difference between ISP and IP

The following table highlights the major differences between ISP and IP −

Characteristics

ISP

IP

Definition

ISPs are responsible for providing the infrastructure and technology required to connect users to the Internet, which usually occurs through wired or wireless networks.

IP (Internet Protocol) is a protocol that allows communication between internet-connected devices.

Types

Dial-up, cable, DSL, and fibre- optic

IPv4, IPv6

Example

Comcast, Verizon, and AT&T

192.168.1.1

Security

It is responsible for ensuring the security of their networks against cyberattacks such as malware, viruses, and hacking attempts.

It doesn't provide security, but protocols such as TCP and UDP are responsible for ensuring data is transmitted reliably and efficiently.

Static/Dynamic

It can be static or dynamic.

It can be static or dynamic.

Assigned by

It assigns IP addresses to their customers.

IANA and the RIRs are responsible for assigning IP addresses.

Services

Internet connectivity, email, web hosting, domain name registration, and other value- added services

None

Stands for

Internet Service Provider (ISP)

Internet Protocol (IP)

Conclusion

In conclusion, an ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a company that offers consumers internet access, whereas an IP (Internet Protocol) is a unique numerical number provided to every device connected to the internet.

ISPs are responsible for providing the infrastructure and technology required to connect users to the internet, which usually occurs through wired or wireless networks. They provide a variety of services, such as internet access, email, web hosting, and domain name registration.

IP addresses serve as unique identifiers for internet-connected devices. They are used to transport data packets across networks and enable device connections. IP addresses can be static (fixed) or dynamic (changing), and they can be manually or automatically provided for devices by an ISP.

Updated on: 26-Apr-2023

1K+ Views

Kickstart Your Career

Get certified by completing the course

Get Started
Advertisements