Intellectual Property is intangible property; ideas and creativity, and reputation, that the law will allow you to own and keep others from using without your permission. Generally speaking, there are four types of intellectual property.
Patents protect your rights in your useful ideas. Copyrights protect your rights in your artistic work, including the specific aspects of computer programs (but not the underlying ideas). Trademarks protect your rights in the symbols you use to identify your good and services. Trade Secrets protect your rights in your secret information.