An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a numerical label assigned to every device that connects to the internet or a local network. Think of it like a mailing address for your connection: when you visit a website, your request includes your IP address so the server knows where to send the response.
Your Public IP vs. Your Private IP
You actually have two kinds of IP addresses at any given moment:
- public IP - Assigned by your ISP. This is what websites see. All devices on the same home network share one public IP.
- private IP - Assigned by your router. Used only within your home network (e.g., 192.168.1.5). Not visible to the outside world.
What Does Your IP Address Reveal?
| Data Point | Accuracy |
|---|---|
| Country | Very high (99%+) |
| Region / State | High |
| City | Medium (within ~50 km) |
| ISP name | Very high |
| VPN / proxy use | Medium |
| Exact home address | Not revealed |
IPv4 vs IPv6
Most connections still use IPv4 (e.g., 203.0.113.42), a 32-bit format with about 4.3 billion possible addresses. IPv6 (e.g., 2001:db8::1) uses 128 bits and supports a practically unlimited number of devices. Many ISPs now assign both.
How to Check Your IP
The fastest way is to use our IP Lookup tool. It shows your public IPv4, IPv6 (if active), ISP, and approximate location instantly.
People Also Ask
- How do I see my current IP address?
- Visit WhatsMyIP.now and your public IP displays immediately. On Windows, open Command Prompt and run
ipconfig. On Mac or Linux, open Terminal and runifconfigorip addr. - Is my IP address my Wi-Fi or my device?
- Neither, exactly. Your public IP belongs to your internet connection as assigned by your ISP. Multiple devices on the same Wi-Fi all share one public IP but each gets a different private IP from your router.
- Can I see my IP address on my phone?
- Yes. Open any browser on your phone and visit WhatsMyIP.now. You can also find your private IP in your phone's Wi-Fi settings under the network details.
Related: What does my IP reveal? | How to hide your IP