An IP address is a numerical label assigned to every device connected to the internet. Your public IP address is what websites see when you connect to them.
Your public IP is assigned by your ISP and visible to the internet. Your private IP (192.168.x.x or 10.x.x.x) is used within your local network. Your router uses NAT to map private addresses to a single public IP.
Your IP can reveal your approximate geographic location and ISP. It cannot reveal your exact address. Using a VPN encrypts your traffic and masks your real IP address.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IPv4 and IPv6?
IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses (e.g., 192.168.1.1) with ~4.3 billion addresses. IPv6 uses 128-bit hexadecimal addresses with a vastly larger space. This tool shows IPv4.
Why does my IP address change?
Most residential connections use dynamic IPs via DHCP. Your IP may change on router restart or lease expiry. Businesses often use static IPs.
Can someone find my location from my IP?
An IP reveals approximate geographic region (city level) and ISP name. It cannot reveal your exact street address.
How can I hide my IP address?
Use a VPN to mask your real IP. Other options include Tor or a proxy server, each with different speed and security trade-offs.
Is my IP data stored by this tool?
No. This tool fetches your IP from api.ipify.org and displays it in your browser. We do not log or store your IP address.