My Public IP Address Is:
18.97.9.174
My Local IP Address Is:
If the local IP address could not be determined, it's may be because many web browsers are prevented from detecting a local (private) IP address.
If so, click here to to easily find your local IP address instantly.
What Is an IP Address?
IP stands for Internet Protocol, which is just a fancy way of saying “rules for using the internet.” An IP address is a special number that helps computers, websites, and apps know where to send data. Without it, your device wouldn’t know where to go when you try to visit a website or send an email.
Think of it like this: Imagine you’re sending a letter to a friend. You write their address on the envelope, so the mailman knows where to deliver it. The internet works the same way! Your device’s IP address helps make sure that the right information reaches the right place.
Different Types of IP Addresses
1. Local (Private) IP Address
Your local IP address is the one that your Wi-Fi router gives to your devices at home. Think of it as a nickname that your router uses to keep track of all the devices connected to it. Every device in your home has a different local IP, but they all share the same public IP when they connect to the internet.
- Your computer might have a local IP like
192.168.1.2 - Your phone might have a local IP like
192.168.1.3 - Your smart TV might have a local IP like
192.168.1.4
2. Public IP Address
Your public IP address is the one the internet sees. Your internet service provider (ISP) assigns this address to your home network. If someone wants to connect to your network from the outside world, they use this address. It’s like the street address of your house, while local IPs are like room numbers inside your home.
3. Static vs. Dynamic IP Addresses
- Static IP – This type of IP doesn’t change. Businesses often use them so they can have a fixed address for their websites or servers.
- Dynamic IP – This one changes from time to time. Most home users have dynamic IPs because they’re easier for internet companies to manage.
4. IPv4 vs. IPv6
IP addresses come in two versions:
- IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) – These are the most common IP addresses. They look like four sets of numbers separated by dots, such as
192.168.1.1. - IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) – Because there are so many devices connected to the internet today, we need more addresses! IPv6 uses longer, more complex numbers, like
2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334.
Why Are IP Addresses Important?
1. Helping Devices Communicate
IP addresses allow computers, phones, and other gadgets to talk to each other. Without them, your laptop wouldn’t know how to send an email, and your phone wouldn’t know where to load a website from!
2. Keeping the Internet Organized
The internet is HUGE, with billions of devices connected. IP addresses help keep everything organized by making sure data goes to the right places.
3. Protecting Your Online Privacy
Your IP address is linked to your internet activity. Some websites and advertisers track these addresses to learn about what people like online. That’s why you might see ads for something you just searched for!
4. Online Security and Safety
Sometimes, websites or services block suspicious IP addresses to keep hackers out. IP addresses also help police and security teams track down bad actors on the internet.
5. Streaming and Gaming
Some websites and streaming services check your IP address to decide what content you can watch. That’s why some shows on Netflix might be available in one country but not in another! Gamers also use IP addresses to connect with players worldwide.
How to Find Your IP Address
Want to see your local IP address? Here’s how:
- On Windows: Open the Command Prompt, type
ipconfig, and hit Enter. - On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Network and look for your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
- On Your Phone: Check your Wi-Fi settings to find the IP.
To find indepth details about your public IP, visit our sister site whatismyipaddress.ca for a wealth of information.
Can You Change Your IP Address?
Yes! There are a few ways:
- Restart Your Router – Your ISP often gives you a new public IP when you restart your modem.
- Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) – This hides your real IP and gives you a different one.
- Contact Your ISP – If you need a new static IP, you can ask your internet provider (sometimes for a fee).
IP addresses might sound confusing at first, but they’re actually very interesting! They help the internet work smoothly, keep devices connected, and even affect the shows you can stream. Whether you’re gaming, sending emails, or just watching YouTube, your IP address is working behind the scenes to make it all happen.
So next time someone talks about an IP address, you’ll know exactly what they mean!