What Is My IP?
What is an IP Address?
Your IP address is a unique identifier assigned to your device when you connect to the internet. It allows websites, apps, and services to recognize your connection and route traffic — like a mailing address for your device.
Types of IP Addresses
IPv4
IPv4 is the most common version. An address looks like 192.168.1.1 and supports about 4.3 billion unique devices.
IPv6
IPv6 is newer and uses addresses like 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334. It offers trillions of addresses for modern internet needs.
Public vs Private IPs
Public IP: Assigned by your ISP and used to identify your network online.
Private IP: Used within your home or office network.
Learn more about public vs private IPs
Static vs Dynamic IPs
Static IP: Doesn’t change over time.
Dynamic IP: Changes periodically and is typically assigned automatically by your ISP.
Static vs Dynamic IP explained
Why You Might Want to Hide or Change Your IP Address
- Protect your privacy and prevent tracking.
- Access geo-restricted content.
- Bypass censorship and firewalls.
- Enhance online security by reducing exposure to threats.
How to Change Your IP Address
Use a VPN
VPNs encrypt your traffic and assign you a new IP address, often in a different region.
Use a Proxy Server
Proxies reroute your connection and mask your original IP — though they offer less privacy than VPNs. Compare VPNs vs Proxies
Restart Your Router
For dynamic IPs, rebooting your router may prompt your ISP to assign a new one.
Use the Tor Browser
Tor routes your connection through a decentralized network of servers for anonymity. Learn how Tor works