In computer networking, IP addresses that are globally reachable over the public internet and are routable across the global network are classified as which type of address?

Introduction / Context:
Internet Protocol addresses are used to identify devices on networks. Some addresses are meant to be visible on the global internet, while others are reserved for local networks or special purposes. Knowing the difference between public and private addressing is essential for understanding how devices communicate beyond a local area network. This question asks you to identify the classification of IP addresses that are directly reachable across the public internet.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are working with IPv4 or IPv6 addresses used in typical networking environments.
• Addresses assigned by internet service providers can be routed globally.
• Private address ranges such as 10 dot 0 dot 0 dot 0 slash 8 are not routed on the public internet.
• Special ranges exist for loopback, link local, and broadcast purposes.

Concept / Approach:
IP addresses that are routable across the global internet are called public IP addresses. They are unique across the entire internet and are assigned by regional internet registries or providers. Private IP addresses are used within local networks and must be translated, for example using Network Address Translation, before traffic reaches the internet. Loopback addresses are used for testing on the local host, and link local addresses are used for communication within a single link. Broadcast addresses have special signaling purposes. Thus, the correct classification for globally routable addresses is public IP addresses.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1 Recall that public addresses are assigned for use on the global internet and are unique. Step 2 Remember that private ranges, such as 192 dot 168 dot 0 dot 0 slash 16, are intentionally not routed on the public internet. Step 3 Understand that loopback and link local addresses have special local roles and are not globally routable. Step 4 Select the option that labels globally reachable, routable addresses as public IP addresses.

Verification / Alternative check:
Network certification materials and official addressing documentation describe public addresses as those that can appear on the public internet without translation. Routers on the internet drop traffic that has private or link local source addresses. Tools such as what is my IP show your public IP address, which confirms its role as a globally routable identifier. This behavior matches the description in the question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Private IP addresses are meant for internal networks and cannot be routed directly on the internet. Loopback addresses, such as 127 dot 0 dot 0 dot 1, are used only for local host testing. Link local addresses enable devices on a single network segment to communicate without external configuration and are not intended for global routing. Reserved broadcast addresses are used to send messages to all hosts in a local network and are not host identifiers that can be routed through the internet.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to assume that any address that allows web browsing is itself public, even if the device sits behind a router performing Network Address Translation. Another pitfall is confusing private ranges with link local ranges. Understanding which addresses are truly visible on the public internet is important when designing network architectures and configuring firewalls.

Final Answer:
IP addresses that are globally reachable over the public internet are classified as Public IP addresses.