What Is an IP Address?

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to a network. Think of it like a mailing address for your computer — it tells the internet where to send information so it reaches you and not someone else.

What Does an IP Address Look Like?

Most IP addresses you'll encounter today look like this:

These are called IPv4 addresses — four numbers between 0 and 255, separated by dots. There are also newer IPv6 addresses that look like this:

IPv6 was introduced because the world is running out of IPv4 addresses. Both formats serve the same purpose.

Public vs. Private IP Addresses

You actually have two IP addresses at any given time:

• Public IP address — assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This is what websites and services on the internet see when you connect. It identifies your household or office on the internet.
• Private IP address — assigned by your router to devices on your local network (your phone, laptop, smart TV, etc.). These are not visible on the internet.

When you visit a website, that site sees your public IP address — not your private one.

What Can Someone Tell from Your IP Address?

An IP address can reveal:

• Your approximate location (usually city or region level — not your street address)
• Your Internet Service Provider (ISP), such as Comcast, AT&T, or Verizon
• Whether you're using a VPN, proxy, or Tor

It cannot reveal your name, exact home address, or personal information without a court order to your ISP.

Does Your IP Address Change?

Most home internet connections use a dynamic IP address, meaning your ISP can change it periodically — often when you restart your router. Businesses typically pay for a static IP address that stays the same permanently.

Why Does My IP Address Show the Wrong City?

IP geolocation is an estimate based on where your ISP routes traffic, not your physical location. If your ISP's routing hub is in a neighboring city, that's what gets reported. Using a VPN will show the location of the VPN server instead of your actual location.