Addressing refers to assigning unique identifiers to devices or nodes in a network so they can communicate effectively.
- It involves both the assignment of addresses and the resolution of these addresses into physical or logical forms for data delivery.
1.) Assigning Addresses
Assigning addresses involves providing each device in a network with a unique identifier, such as an IP address (for logical communication) or a MAC address (for physical communication).
Purpose:
- Ensures each device can be uniquely identified within the network.
- Facilitates accurate routing and delivery of data packets to the intended recipient.
Example: In an IP-based network, devices are assigned IPv4 or IPv6 addresses to enable logical communication.
2.) Address Resolution
Address resolution is the process of translating one type of address into another, such as converting a logical IP address into a physical MAC address.
Purpose:
- Bridges the gap between different addressing schemes used by various layers of the network.
- Enables the delivery of data from a logical address to a specific device’s physical interface.
Example: The Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) is used to resolve IPv4 addresses into MAC addresses in Ethernet-based networks. Similarly, the Domain Name System (DNS) translates domain names into IP addresses.
