What is my IP Address?

An IP address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to your device on the internet.

IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses (e.g., 192.168.1.1), while IPv6 uses 128-bit addresses for more available addresses.

You may need your IP for firewall access, technical support, or configuring remote access to services.

Most home internet connections have dynamic IPs that can change. Business connections often have static IPs.

A public IP address is the address your network uses on the internet. A private IP address is used only inside your local network, for example by your laptop, phone, or printer.

Websites and online services normally see your public IP address, not your private one.

Yes, websites you visit can see your public IP address. This is necessary so they can send data back to your device.

Websites use IP addresses for security, fraud prevention, logs, geo-targeting, and limiting abuse.

You can change or hide your visible public IP address by using a VPN, proxy server, or a different network. Your IP can also change automatically when your modem reconnects to your provider.

Business internet connections or static IP services usually keep the same IP for longer periods.

An IP address can usually reveal a general or regional location, such as your country, city, or internet provider, but not your exact street address in normal cases.

IP geolocation is useful for security, local content, and troubleshooting, but it is not always perfectly accurate.