Understanding your IP address
An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique identifier your internet service provider assigns to your connection. Every device that connects to the internet needs one so that data — web pages, videos, messages — knows where to be delivered. When you load a website, your IP address is the return address on the request.
Public vs. private IP addresses
The address shown at the top of this page is your public IP — the one the outside internet sees. Inside your home or office, your router also gives each device a private IP (like 192.168.x.x) that isn't visible to the wider internet. This page can only show your public IP, because that's the one websites actually receive.
What your IP address reveals
Your IP address can be used to estimate your country, region and city, identify your internet provider, and tell whether you're on a mobile network, home broadband, a business connection, or a VPN. It does not reveal your name or exact street address — but combined with other data, advertisers and websites use it to profile and track you.
Why is the detected location not exactly right?
IP geolocation maps blocks of IP addresses to physical locations using large databases. It's usually accurate to the city or metropolitan level, but it often points to your provider's regional routing hub rather than your actual neighbourhood. Mobile connections in particular can appear dozens of kilometres away from where you really are. That's normal — and it's a reminder that the location is an estimate, not a precise fix.
IPv4 and IPv6
The world is transitioning from IPv4 (addresses like 203.0.113.42) to IPv6 (longer addresses like 2001:db8:85a3::8a2e:370:7334) because IPv4 addresses have run out. This tool detects whichever protocol your connection is currently using and labels it above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I hide or change my IP address?
The most reliable way is a VPN. It routes your traffic through a secure server, so websites see the server's IP and location instead of yours. You can also get a new IP by restarting your router (for a dynamic IP) or contacting your provider.
Is it dangerous that websites can see my IP?
On its own, an IP address is low-risk — but it exposes your approximate location and provider, can be used to serve targeted ads, throttle your connection, or apply regional blocks. Hiding it with a VPN restores your privacy.
Why does my IP address keep changing?
Most home providers hand out dynamic IPs that rotate periodically. Businesses sometimes pay for a static IP that never changes. Switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data also changes your public IP.
Does this page store my IP address?
No. Your IP is detected and displayed to you in your browser. We don't log it or sell it. If you'd rather no website could read it at all, use a VPN.