What is my IP?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to every device connected to a network. It serves two main functions: identifying the host or network interface, and providing the location of the host in the network.

IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) uses 32-bit addresses, allowing for about 4.3 billion unique addresses. IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) uses 128-bit addresses, providing a virtually unlimited number of addresses. IPv6 was developed to address the exhaustion of IPv4 addresses and offers improved security features.

IP geolocation databases map IP addresses to approximate physical locations based on registration data and network routing information. This location may differ from your actual physical location because:

• Your ISP’s infrastructure might be located in a different city
• You’re using a VPN or proxy service
• The geolocation database hasn’t been recently updated
• Your organization uses centralized internet access points

Yes, there are several ways to hide or change your public IP address:

• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Routes your connection through a server in another location
• Proxy servers: Intermediate servers that handle requests on your behalf
• Tor browser: Anonymizes your connection through multiple relays
• Using public Wi-Fi: Connects through a different network with a different IP

For most home internet users, IP addresses are dynamic and can change periodically. Your ISP may assign you a new IP address when you restart your router, after a certain period, or when the DHCP lease expires. Some users pay for static IP addresses that don’t change, which is common for businesses hosting services.

Generally, no. IP geolocation typically provides an approximate location (city or region level) rather than your precise address. The accuracy varies by provider and location. In most cases, your exact physical address cannot be determined from your IP address alone without additional information from your ISP, which is typically only available to law enforcement with proper legal authorization.