IP Address Explained: What You Need To Know

Medium Tech
3 min readApr 22, 2024

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Learn the basics of IP addresses, how to find yours, and what it reveals about you. Discover how to protect your online identity and stay safe online.

Hey there, tech-savvy folks! Have you ever wondered what’s behind that string of numbers and dots that is your IP address? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll demystify IP addresses, show you how to find yours, and explore what it can reveal about you.

What is an IP address?

An IP address is like a unique ID that identifies your device on a network. It’s what allows you to communicate with other devices and access the internet. Think of it like a mailing address for your online activities.

How to find your IP address

Want to know your IP address? It’s easy! Just head to https://cmyip.pages.dev and voilà! You can also find your IP address on your phone or device by checking your network settings.

What’s the difference between IP addresses on Wi-Fi and phones?

On your phone, you can find your IP address in the network settings. On Wi-Fi, your router assigns a private IP address to your device. Both are unique, but serve the same purpose — to connect you to the internet.

Can you find someone’s location with their IP address?

While an IP address can give you a general idea of someone’s location, it’s not a precise GPS coordinate. It’s more like a rough estimate of their city or region.

Can IP addresses be tracked?

Yes, IP addresses can be tracked, but it’s not as sinister as it sounds. It’s a normal part of how the internet works. However, using IP tracking for illegal purposes, like stalking or harassment, is a big no-no.

Can I change my IP address?

Yes, you can change your IP address using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This masks your original IP address and gives you a new one based on the VPN server location.

Does an IP address reveal your name?

No, an IP address doesn’t directly reveal your name. It’s more like a digital fingerprint that shows your network and location, but not your personal identity.

What happens if someone finds my IP address?

If someone finds your IP address, they can figure out your approximate location and internet service provider. But, without additional info or hacking skills, they can’t directly harm you or access your private info.

Does a VPN change your IP address?

Yes, a VPN can change your IP address, providing you with increased privacy and anonymity online.

There you have it, folks! IP addresses might seem like a complex topic, but with this guide, you’re now well-equipped to navigate the online world with confidence.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, IP addresses are a fundamental part of our online lives, and understanding how they work can help us stay safe and secure online. We’ve learned that IP addresses are unique identifiers that enable communication and data transfer between devices, and that they can be found on our devices and networks. We’ve also explored how IP addresses can be used to track locations and gather information, but that they don’t directly reveal personal identities. Additionally, we’ve discovered that IP addresses can be changed using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which can provide increased privacy and anonymity online. By grasping these concepts, we can take control of our online presence, protect our personal information, and make informed decisions about how we use the internet. So, the next time you’re online, remember that your IP address is like a digital fingerprint — use it wisely, and stay safe out there!

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Medium Tech
Medium Tech

Written by Medium Tech

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