What kind of IP address does a compute instance always get?

A compute instance in Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is assigned a private IP address by default when it is launched. This private IP address is used for internal communication within the Virtual Cloud Network (VCN) and enables instances to communicate with each other securely.

The private IP address is essential for the instance to interact with other resources within the same network or VCN, facilitating local and secure communication. While instances can also be assigned public IP addresses for internet access, the default is always a private IP address. This ensures that internal resources remain protected and manageable without exposing them directly to the internet.

The option for a dynamic public IP address exists, but it is not guaranteed for every instance. Static IP addresses are reserved for specific use cases and require additional configuration. Not all compute instances require a public IP address, making the private IP the fundamental assignment. Thus, the concept of a private IP address reflects the core networking feature that is always present in every compute instance within OCI.