What does the term 'IP address' refer to?

The term 'IP address' refers to a unique binary number that identifies devices on a network. An IP address serves as a critical component of the Internet Protocol, which is used to route data between devices across the internet and within local networks. Each device connected to a network is assigned a distinct IP address, enabling it to send and receive data without confusion. This binary representation is generally expressed in a readable format, such as IPv4 (e.g., 192.168.1.1) or IPv6 (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334). The unique nature of IP addresses ensures that data packets reach their intended destinations accurately.

The other options do not accurately describe an IP address. For example, an IP address is not merely a unique identifier for a web domain, as domains are translated to IP addresses through the Domain Name System (DNS). Additionally, it is not a physical address of a device; that typically refers to a MAC address, which is tied to the hardware's physical network interface. Lastly, an IP address is certainly not a type of malware; it is a fundamental element of network communication.