Function
An IP address identifies the PS3's location on the network. A user can connect to the network using either a wired Ethernet connection or through a wireless connection. A PS3 IP address remains static while a user is connected to the PSN.
Identification
A user can check her IP by navigating to the "Settings" section and scrolling to "System Settings" and then choosing "System Information." Provided she has established a connection to the Internet, the system shows her IP address; otherwise, it does not show anything.
Considerations
When creating a network connection, a user can set the method for obtaining an IP address for his system. He can choose to have the host server allocate an IP for him, or enter one manually.