What is the role of IP in TCP/IP?

The role of IP (Internet Protocol) in the TCP/IP suite is fundamentally about addressing and routing packets of data. Its primary function is to deliver packets to the correct destination, which means it assigns unique IP addresses to each device on a network. This process ensures that data sent across the internet can find its way to the right computers.

When a packet of data is transmitted, IP packets contain the destination address, allowing routers and networking devices to direct the packets through various networks until they reach their final destination. This addressing system is crucial for functionality in both local and wide-area networks, as it provides the necessary information for routing decisions.

The other options do not accurately depict the specific function of IP within the TCP/IP model. Sending high-bandwidth multimedia traffic is more related to protocols that handle data streams, establishing secure encryption pertains to protocols like SSL/TLS, and managing network errors is typically the responsibility of the TCP layer, not IP. Hence, the essence of IP's role is correctly highlighted in the context of delivering packets to the right computers.