IP addresses are primarily used to identify what?

IP addresses are primarily used to identify endpoints in a network. An endpoint can be any device that connects to a network, such as computers, smartphones, servers, and routers. Each device is assigned a unique IP address that allows other devices on the network to communicate with it. This identification is crucial for routing traffic across the internet and ensuring that data packets reach the correct destination.

Endpoints are considered the final destination of data being transmitted, which emphasizes the role of IP addresses as vital for end-to-end communication in both local and wide area networks. While devices on the same network can be identified, the broader and more specific context of IP addressing pertains to connecting these devices for data exchange, making identification of endpoints the primary focus. Links between networks and data transfer protocols play supporting roles in networking but do not represent the primary use of IP addresses.