IP addresses are assigned dynamically when connecting to the internet but computers also have a static address. This static address allows networks and governments to identify the computer even when it connects from different locations or networks, enabling them to track a user's online activity and location. The document asks how computers can be located across different networks if they did not have this permanent address, and seeks clarification on how static addresses facilitate online monitoring of users.

1. IP addresses are assigned to computers when they connect to the internet and change
depending on your location. However, I read that your computer also has an address that
doesn't change. So, when you connect to the internet, your IP address is assigned by the
network and your address of your computer is shown to the network as well? Is that how
the government finds out or the network you are using can determine what sites you
searched or what you downloaded?
What I was thinking was if your computer did not have an address, how could they locate
your computer once you left the network and moved somewhere else? I'm sure that they
are able to now and was interested in understanding how the government or someone can
find a user's location when they connect to the internet.