What is an IP address?
A plain-English guide to the number that identifies your connection online.
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a number that identifies a device or network on the internet. Every time you load a website, your request carries your IP address, so the website knows where to send the reply. See your IP address now.
IPv4 vs IPv6
| IPv4 | IPv6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Looks like | 203.0.113.42 | 2001:db8:85a3::8a2e:370:7334 |
| Number of addresses | About 4.3 billion | About 340 undecillion |
| Why it exists | The original standard | Created because IPv4 addresses ran out |
Most connections today use both. If your provider supports IPv6, ipfind.org shows both addresses.
Public vs private IP addresses
Your public IP is assigned by your internet provider and is what websites see. Every device on your home Wi-Fi usually shares the same public IP.
Your private IP is assigned by your router to each device inside your home, such as 192.168.1.15. Private ranges are 10.x.x.x, 172.16.x.x to 172.31.x.x, and 192.168.x.x. They aren't visible on the internet.
Static vs dynamic
Most home connections have a dynamic IP, which can change when your router restarts. Businesses often pay for a static IP that never changes, which is useful for hosting servers or remote access.
What does your IP address reveal?
- Your approximate location: usually your city or region, not your street address.
- Your internet provider: for example Comcast, AT&T or Spectrum.
- Your timezone, and sometimes whether you're on a mobile network or a VPN.
An IP address alone can't reveal your name or home address. Your internet provider can link an IP to an account, but it shares that information only with legal process.
How to find your IP address
The quickest way is to visit ipfind.org, which shows your public IP the moment the page loads. To find your private IP:
- Windows: open Command Prompt and type
ipconfig. - Mac: System Settings > Network > your connection > Details.
- iPhone: Settings > Wi-Fi > tap the (i) next to your network.
- Android: Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > your network.
Frequently asked questions
Can someone find my home address from my IP?
No. An IP address shows an approximate area, usually a city or region. Only your internet provider can link an IP to a customer account, and it shares that only with legal process.
Does my IP address change?
Most home connections have a dynamic IP that can change when your router restarts or your provider reassigns addresses. Businesses often pay for a static IP that never changes.
Is my IP the same on every device at home?
Your public IP is shared by every device on your home Wi-Fi. Each device also has its own private IP, such as 192.168.1.20, which only your router sees.