IP Lookup

What Is an IP Address?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to every device connected to the internet. Like a postal address for physical mail, your IP address tells other computers where to send data meant for you.

There are two types of IP addresses: IPv4 (like 192.168.1.1) and IPv6 (like 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334). IPv4 addresses are more common but limited in number, while IPv6 provides vastly more available addresses for the growing internet.

This free IP lookup tool instantly displays your public IP address along with available location and network information, helping you understand how you appear to websites and services online.

Understanding Public vs Private IP Addresses

Your network uses different types of IP addresses:

Public IP addresses identify your network to the broader internet. This is the address websites see when you visit them, and what this tool displays.

Private IP addresses work within your local network (home or office). Devices like your computer, phone, and printer each have private IPs that do not appear on the public internet.

Your router translates between these address types, allowing multiple devices to share one public IP address while maintaining separate private addresses internally.

When troubleshooting connectivity or configuring network services, knowing your public IP address is often essential.

What Information IP Addresses Reveal

IP addresses can indicate several pieces of information about your connection:

Geographic location is approximated from IP addresses, typically accurate to city level. ISPs assign IP ranges to specific regions.

Internet Service Provider (ISP) information identifies which company provides your internet connection.

Connection type may be inferred, distinguishing between residential, business, mobile, or data center connections.

Network organization identifies the company or institution responsible for the IP address range.

It is important to note that IP-based location is approximate and can be inaccurate, especially for mobile connections or when using VPNs.

Common Uses for IP Lookup Tools

Knowing your IP address serves many practical purposes:

Network troubleshooting often starts with confirming your public IP address and ensuring it matches expectations.

Remote access setup requires knowing your public IP to configure services that need to reach your network from outside.

VPN verification confirms whether your VPN connection is working by showing a different IP address than your normal connection.

Server configuration may require whitelisting your IP address to grant access to protected resources.

Security awareness helps you understand what information you expose simply by connecting to websites and services.

Geographic verification confirms where internet services think you are located.

Privacy Considerations for IP Addresses

IP addresses have privacy implications worth understanding:

Websites can log your IP address when you visit, creating records of your browsing even without cookies or accounts.

Approximate location is exposed by your IP address, though typically only to city level, not specific addresses.

VPNs and proxies can mask your real IP address, showing a different address belonging to the VPN service instead.

Dynamic IP addresses change periodically for most residential connections, limiting long-term tracking by IP alone.

This tool displays information available from your IP address, helping you understand what websites and services can learn about your connection.