Why is a 'public' IP address significant?

A public IP address holds significant importance because it is accessible over the internet and is unique to each device connected to the web. This uniqueness ensures that data sent over the internet reaches the correct destination, as no two devices can have the same public IP address at the same time. Public IP addresses are assigned by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and make it possible for devices to communicate with one another across various networks globally.

In contrast, local networking requires private IP addresses, which are used within internal networks and are not routable on the internet. While masking is a technique used for privacy or security purposes, it does not specifically define the function or significance of public IP addresses. Private connections rely on private IP addresses and hence do not utilize the distinctive capabilities provided by public IP addresses.