What Is My IP? Understanding IP Addresses and Privacy

What Is an IP Address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique number assigned to every device connected to the internet. It serves two purposes:

1. **Identification** - Identifies your device on the network
2. **Location** - Reveals your approximate geographic location

Types of IP Addresses

IPv4

• Format: 192.168.1.1
• About 4.3 billion addresses
• Most common format

IPv6

• Format: 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334
• Nearly unlimited addresses
• The future of internet addressing

What Does Your IP Reveal?

Information Leaked

• Country
• City/Region
• Internet Service Provider (ISP)
• Organization (for business connections)

Information NOT Leaked

• Exact street address
• Personal identity
• Phone number
• Computer name

Dynamic vs. Static IP

Dynamic IP

• Changes periodically
• Assigned by ISP
• More private
• Most home connections

Static IP

• Never changes
• Used for servers, remote access
• Easier to track

How to Hide Your IP

1. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Routes your traffic through another server:

• Hides your real IP
• Encrypts traffic
• Changes apparent location

2. Tor Browser

Routes through multiple nodes:

• Very strong anonymity
• Slower connection
• For sensitive browsing

3. Proxy Servers

Similar to VPN but may not encrypt:

• Can bypass geo-restrictions
• Less secure than VPN

4. Public WiFi

Using public networks hides your home IP but creates other risks.

Finding Your IP

Your public IP is visible to every website you visit. Use our IP Detector to see what information your IP reveals about you.

Privacy Best Practices

• Use VPN on public WiFi
• Be cautious with personal information online
• Understand that IP tracking has limitations
• Consider multiple privacy tools together

Check your IP address and see what it reveals with our IP Detector!