CompTIA ITF+ Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Resource for Complete Exam Success!

The reason why the choice identifying public IP addresses as accessible over the internet is correct relates directly to the fundamental purpose and functionality of the two types of IP addresses. Public IP addresses are assigned to devices that need to communicate over the broader internet, allowing them to send and receive data globally. This enables users to access websites, streaming services, and online applications because these addresses are unique across the entire internet.

In contrast, private IP addresses are used within local networks and are not routable on the internet. Devices with private IP addresses can communicate with each other within the same network (like a home or office), but they cannot be accessed directly from the outside world. This helps conserve the limited number of public IP addresses available and enhances security by keeping internal network devices hidden from direct internet access.

Understanding this distinction highlights the roles they each play in networking: public for internet accessibility and private for local, secure communication.