What is an IP address?
An IP address is the numeric identifier your connection uses on the internet. Websites and services use it to know where to send responses back. In this simple guide we explain how IPs work, show examples, clarify public vs private and static vs dynamic addresses, and share privacy tips and quick tools to check your own IP safely.
How IP addresses work
When you connect to the internet, your internet provider assigns a public IP to your router or gateway. Devices in your home (laptops, phones, TVs) get private IPs from the router. The router translates between the private network and the internet using NAT (network address translation). Websites see the public IP, not the private ones.
Examples and versions (IPv4 & IPv6)
The two versions you’ll meet are IPv4 and IPv6. IPv4 looks like 203.0.113.7 (four numbers 0–255).
IPv6 looks like 2001:db8::1 (hexadecimal blocks and can be shortened). Many networks use both.
For a deeper side-by-side explanation, see IPv4 vs IPv6.
Public vs private, static vs dynamic
| Type | What it means | Where it’s used | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public | Address visible on the internet | Assigned to your router/gateway | Reachable from outside (with firewall rules) | May change; exposed to the public internet |
| Private | Internal address (e.g., 192.168.x.x) | Inside home/office networks | Not directly exposed; safer by default | Not routable on the internet; requires NAT |
| Static | Stays the same over time | Hosting services, remote access | Predictable address for allowlists and DNS | May cost extra; needs provider support |
| Dynamic | Changes periodically | Most home and mobile plans | Simple, automatic, no setup | Not ideal for hosting; address may rotate |
What an IP address reveals (and what it doesn’t)
An IP address can indicate your country/region and your internet provider (ASN), and sometimes the nearest major city. It does not reliably reveal your personal name or exact street address. City-level accuracy depends on provider data, network type, and whether a VPN or proxy is used. For details, read How accurate is IP geolocation?.
How to find your IP safely
- Open What is my IP — it shows your public IP at the edge (no logs).
- Compare results on Wi-Fi vs mobile data — the IP may differ by network.
- Optional: check IPv4 vs IPv6 to learn which version you are using.
Privacy & safety tips
- Remember that public IPs are visible to websites — use reputable sites and secure connections (HTTPS).
- If you need an extra privacy layer, consider a trusted VPN — it shows the VPN’s server IP instead of yours.
- Keep your router firmware updated and use a strong Wi-Fi password to protect devices behind your IP.
Frequently asked questions
Does my IP address change?
With dynamic IPs (most home/mobile plans) it can change after a reboot or on a schedule. Static IPs stay the same until you request a change.
Who assigns IP addresses?
Regional internet registries allocate IP ranges to providers. Your ISP then assigns an address to your connection.
Can I hide my IP?
You can route traffic through a VPN or proxy so sites see the exit server’s IP. Note that services may still identify you by account, cookies, or device signals.
Try it now: check your public IP on What is my IP — then explore our guides to learn what it reveals and how to control it.