Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. There are several types of intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and industrial designs. These creations are protected by law through patents, copyrights, trademarks, or trade secret laws, which grant the creators exclusive rights over their creations for a certain period of time. This protection allows creators to benefit financially from their works or inventions and encourages innovation and creativity.