ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) – a protocol that allows devices in a local network to determine the physical address (MAC address) of another device for data exchange. This is necessary so that computers can transmit data using only an IP address.
When a computer wants to send data to another device on the network, it knows its IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.5), but does not know the MAC address (physical address of the network card), which is necessary for transmitting information. ARP helps find this MAC address.
ARP is used everywhere there are local networks:
- Office networks
- Home Wi-Fi
- Corporate networks
This is a fundamental protocol that works invisibly, ensuring the normal operation of networks we use daily.