What is the structure of an IP address?

An IP address, specifically in its most widely recognized version (IPv4), is structured as a 32-bit number that is divided into four octets. Each octet consists of 8 bits, which allows for a range of values from 0 to 255. This division into four octets makes it easier to read and work with, as it allows the IP address to be represented in the familiar dotted-decimal format (e.g., 192.168.0.1).

This structure is vital for networking, as it aids in the assignment and identification of devices on a network. In contrast, other options describe different formats or variations that do not capture the standard structure of an IPv4 address. For instance, a single octet or a hexadecimal number does not represent the entirety of an IP address format, and while a 64-bit number refers to an IPv6 format, that option does not accurately describe the traditional IPv4 structure. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the established structure that underpins how we traditionally understand and utilize IP addresses in networking contexts.