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IP Address FAQ

Answers to the most common questions about IP addresses, privacy, and security.

What is an IP address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to the internet. It works like a mailing address — it tells other devices where to send data. Learn about public vs private IPs →

How do I find my IP address?

The fastest way is to use our IP lookup tool — it instantly shows your public IP. You can also find your private IP through your device's network settings. We have guides for iPhone, Android, Windows, and Mac.

Can someone find my exact location from my IP?

No. An IP address typically reveals your city or metropolitan area (with 50-80% accuracy) and your ISP. It cannot reveal your street address, name, or other personal information. Learn more →

Why does my IP location show the wrong city?

This is very common. Your ISP may route your traffic through a hub in a different city, or the geolocation database may not be up to date. Full explanation →

What's the difference between IPv4 and IPv6?

IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses (like 192.168.1.1) with about 4.3 billion possible addresses. IPv6 uses 128-bit addresses (like 2001:db8::1) with virtually unlimited addresses. Most connections still use IPv4, but IPv6 adoption is growing.

Does my IP address change?

If you have a dynamic IP (most home connections do), it can change when you restart your router or periodically as your ISP reassigns addresses. Learn about dynamic vs static IPs →

How do I change my IP address?

The easiest way is to use a VPN, which instantly gives you a new IP. You can also restart your router, toggle airplane mode on mobile, or contact your ISP. See all 5 methods →

Does a VPN change my IP address?

Yes. A VPN replaces your real IP with the VPN server's IP address. Websites will see the server's location instead of yours. Learn how VPNs work →

How do I know if my VPN is working?

Visit our IP lookup tool while connected to your VPN. If it shows the VPN server's location instead of your real city, the VPN is working correctly.

What's the difference between public and private IP?

Your public IP is what the internet sees — it's assigned by your ISP. Your private IP is what your local network uses — it's assigned by your router. Full comparison →

Is it illegal for someone to look up my IP address?

No. Your IP address is shared with every website you visit — it's a normal part of how the internet works. However, using someone's IP to attempt unauthorized access to their network would be illegal.

Can I hide my IP address?

Yes. The most effective way is to use a VPN, which replaces your real IP with the server's IP. You can also use the Tor browser for stronger anonymity, though it's significantly slower.

Understanding Your IP Address

Your IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical label, and this is especially worth considering in the faq context on this page. See the sections above for specifics.

Public vs private IP: Public vs private IP: Your public IP address, which matters most when looking at specific cases like faq. See the sections above for specifics.

What your IP reveals: What your IP reveals: Your public IP address, and the faq numbers presented here illustrate this pattern. See the sections above for specifics.

IPv4 vs IPv6: IPv4 vs IPv6: The older IPv4 standard uses, which has direct implications for anyone researching faq topics. See the sections above for specifics.

Protecting your privacy: Protecting your privacy: If you want to mask, and this is especially worth considering in the faq context on this page. See the sections above for specifics.