Help, anyone.

[LUVBUGZ]

As I've stated many times before, I don't know much about computers and software, but I've been trying to use my spyware, virus and firewall stuff and have no idea what the hell I'm doing. I try to use the HELP stuff, but that usually leads to more questions, which eventually leads to frustration and eventual disgust. Actually, I think I've totally muffed up my computer, but none the less I still have some questions for any computer expert who will offer any advice (preferably in layman's terms). BYT, I thank you in advance for any help offered.

My first question is......IP address. What is it, what does it do, what can bad people do if they get it?

I thought every computer has an IP address that identifies it, kinda like a license plate on your car. And, if someone gets your "plate number" they can use that to find out other info. on you, or your computer rather.

Now, I started this firewall thing (McAfee) and every two seconds it's giving me some warning about what I have no idea, but I'll get to that later (depending on if I have any takers in the advice department).

Anyhoo, I was looking at the Activity Log and noticed that it tells me what my *current* IP add. is, but a few lines later gives a *different* IP add. What's with that? I thought every computer has *one* IP address.

Then, I look further to see that a "previous IP add." had been "released". When and Why does this info get "released"?

So, does my computer, or the software give me a new IP if one is released?