What is my IP and what do I need to know about it
IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique number that allows internet-connected devices to communicate with web servers. The purpose of the IP is to identify different devices on a network and exchange information. Yet, the unique number assigned on your network or device can reveal more than you think - it can expose information about you and your location.
What can my IP address reveal about me?
You should know that your IP address is tightened up with information such as your country of residence, postal code, or even street location. Since the address handles sending and receiving data, your online activities are also visible. Your Internet Protocol can be linked to certain cookies of websites you visit. The 3rd parties would know your interests and then target you with ads. Frightening, isn’t it? Such specific details can be revealed for anyone who’s curious enough - either it’s your ISP or some hacker who’s interested in your personal data.
What’s my Internet Protocol type?
There are two main types of IP addresses - public and private. Every device which is online gets a public IP to identify it, and any device on a local network gets a private IP to the same end. Hence, each device connected to the network has both types assigned. Your public address is issued by your ISP, whereas, your router issues private IPs to each network device inside it.
What is my private IP?
Your PC, mobile, smart TV or printer - each device has an IP address. Disregarding the type of network you use - Wi-Fi or Ethernet (cable) - they’ve all got an IP if they communicate to the internet. If you are already wondering what is my IP and how do I find it, proceed as below:
If you are a Windows user, typing in “ipconfig” on the Command Prompt is all you need. On macOS, you may open the Terminal and enter “ipconfig” there in the same manner as Windows.
If you wish to know the IP addresses of other devices, go into the router. How to access the admin panel of your router should be explained in your router’s user manual. Within the admin panel, you should locate the option “Attached devices”, where you’ll be able to check the IPs of devices connected on a network. What is my IP address for my router can be checked there as well.
What is my public IP?
Googling “whatismyip“ or “IP lookup” will be enough to find out your public address. Don’t be surprised that the results will show a bit more - your ISP name, your city or even precise location.
Why do I need to hide my address?
Now that you know how to find an IP address and you are aware of what can it reveal, perhaps you wish to know if there are ways to hide it. Luckily, a piece of data that is linked to your location, browsing history, and ISP can be secured easily! By connecting to the Virtual Private Network, your real IP address will be replaced with a VPN server’s one. More than that, when connected to the VPN proxy server, your traffic is encrypted. This means that your online activity becomes untraceable and no one can spy on it. There are multiple other benefits that you can get when using this powerful cybersecurity tool. Read a more in-depth explanation of what is VPN and its advantages, it will explain in detail why it is a must in today’s global world.
