What is a characteristic of a public IP address?

A public IP address is characterized by being globally unique and routable across the internet. This means that each public IP address is distinct and can be accessed from anywhere in the world, allowing devices on different networks to communicate with each other without confusion. Public IP addresses are assigned by organizations known as Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and they help identify devices on the broader internet. This global uniqueness is essential for the functioning of internet protocols, enabling communication and the transfer of data between various systems around the globe.

In contrast, characteristics such as being used within a private network or being only accessible within the same local network describe private IP addresses. These private IP addresses are not routable on the internet and are used for communication between devices within a specific local network. Additionally, while a public IP address can be assigned by an ISP rather than a local router, the local router typically deals with private IP addresses within a home or organization's network. The key takeaway is that public IP addresses are designed for global reach and recognition, making them vital for internet connectivity.