Use our free IP address lookup tool to trace the the geographical location of any IP address, whether it's your IP address or someone else's. Learning how to look up an IP couldn't be simpler; if you're tracking suspicious activity, solving network issues, or just curious, this tool delivers fast, reliable insights. View details like city, region, country, ZIP code, Internet service provider, and time zone instantly.
What is an IP address?
An IP address is a unique number that identifies a computer or device on a network. It allows information to route to and from your devices and reach the correct place on a network. Without IP addresses, the Internet wouldn't function.
When learning about IP addresses, it helps to understand the difference between public vs private IP addresses. A private IP address is used inside your home or office network to let devices like computers, printers, and phones communicate with each other. A public IP address is what your Internet service provider assigns to your network so it can be recognized on the wider Internet. In short, private IPs keep devices connected locally, while public IPs make sure your network can send and receive data online.
How the IP lookup tool works
An IP lookup retrieves information about an IP address, including its location, hostname, and network details. It helps to diagnose network issues, track malicious activities, or maintain online privacy.
To use the IP lookup tool:
- Enter any IPv4 or IPv6 address into the field above.
- Click the Lookup button.
- View the details the tool returns, including city, region, postal code, country, ISP, and time zone.
Your IP will automatically be filled into the tool when you first visit the page. However, if you want to perform another IP lookup, simply replace the auto-filled IP with the IP you wish to search.
What information can you find with the IP address lookup?
The search results provide quite a bit of information about the IP locations, including:
- City
- State/Region
- Postal/Zip Code
- Country
- Internet Service Provider (ISP)
- Time Zone
How accurate is IP geolocation?
IP geolocation isn't 100% accurate. Location data is estimated using databases from providers like IP2Location and IPData. Accuracy may vary based on ISP registration, use of VPNs or proxies, cell networks, or anonymous browsers like Tor.
Why use an IP address lookup?
Though IP tracking might sound like a concerning concept, it actually has many benefits for users.
- Identifying suspicious activity or spam sources
- Discovering your public IP and ISP
- Verifying location accuracy for VPNs or proxies
- Targeting ads or content by region
- Troubleshooting network issues
All of these services provide a better experience for website users, tech support, and users who are curious about their IP addresses.
Limitations of the IP tool
While the IP address lookup can provide valuable information, it does have limitations.
- IP location is approximate, not accurate. The lookup only provides a general location, which may not always be accurate.
- Dynamic IPs may change frequently. Some ISPs use dynamic IPs, meaning your IP changes frequently. This makes it challenging to track down a specific user.
- VPNs and proxies obscure true locations. If you're using a VPN, your IP address will likely indicate a different location.
- Some users may have privacy concerns. The lookup can reveal personal information, like your general location and Internet service provider.
Looking up an IP with this tool provides many benefits, but be aware of the limitations as well. You may need to use another WhatIsMyIP tool to get the information you're looking for.
Reporting IP abuse
If you’re looking up an IP address because you’ve become a victim of IP abuse, don't act immediately. It’s important to report the IP abuse rather than attempting to handle it yourself. Don’t assume that the owner of the IP address is the person behind the abuse.
Instead, perform an IP WHOIS Lookup to get further IP address details, including abuse contact information for IP address owners. You can block the offending IP address. Then, file a complaint with the authorities or your Internet service provider and allow them to handle the situation.
Can you trace an IP address?
Yes, you can trace an IP address to get a general idea of its location. However, you won't be able to pinpoint someone's exact address. An IP trace may reveal the city or region where the IP is registered or where the ISP operates, but it won't show a home address or personal details.
How do I find my IP address?
You can find your public IP address on the What Is My IP homepage. You can also find it on the IP lookup tool page.
Note that when you search IP addresses through the tool, the result you get is your public IP address. This is different than your private IP address, which you find through your computer. Read about how to check an IP address in Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 11, or how to find an IP on an iPad to learn how to find your device's private IP address.
How to update or correct your IP location
If your IP location is incorrect, look up your IP and contact the third-party IP location data providers and update your IP address location. Search your IP address in the lookup tool and contact the third-party providers listed in the results.
Allow time for the updates to propagate. Then, try using the lookup tool to check your IP address location again to confirm that the information is now correct. You can also confirm updates listed on third-party providers’ websites.
Can you look up someone's IP address for free?
Yes, using the IP address tracker tool, you can search up addresses and receive the geolocation of an IP address for free. The information you'll receive often includes the country, state, and city of the located address.
Why do I need to perform an IP address lookup?
IP address lookup is important for finding security threats, tracking spammers and hackers, and solving network problems. Businesses and individuals can also use it for marketing purposes. They can target specific regions or demographics with ads or information.
Frequently asked questions
What is my IP address?
You can find your IP address on WhatIsMyIP.com.
Can an IP address be traced?
Yes, an IP address can be traced. However, this doesn't mean that someone will be able to find your exact location. Tracing an IP address only brings someone to your general location or leads them to your Internet service provider.
Is it illegal to look up someone's IP address?
No, it's not illegal to look up someone's IP address.
How does an IP address tracker work?
An IP address tracker uses location databases that map IP addresses to track the location of the inputted IP. Once you enter an IP into the tracker, it assesses the available map data to retrieve information. This includes the IP's general location, its related ISP, information about the Internet connection or network type, and more.
How do I check my device IP address?
You can find your device's IP address in your device's network settings, or if you want to check your public IP, you can do it on the WhatIsMyIP homepage.