How to Check What Your IP Address Is (Quick & Easy) Whether you are troubleshooting network issues, setting up a gaming server, or trying to understand what information websites see about you, knowing your IP address is essential. Your IP (Internet Protocol) address acts as a digital address for your device, allowing it to communicate with other devices on the internet.
However, did you know you actually have two different IP addresses?
Public IP Address: Your identity on the public internet, assigned by your ISP (Internet Service Provider).
Local (Private) IP Address: Your device’s specific address on your home or office network. Here is the quickest and easiest way to find both. 1. How to Check Your Public IP Address (Fastest Method)
This is the IP address that websites, streaming services, and online games use to identify your general location and network.
Use a “What is My IP” Website: Open your web browser and visit a site like WhatIsMyIPAddress.com or Avast’s IP checker. These sites will immediately display your public IPv4 or IPv6 address at the top of the page.
Google it: Simply type “what is my IP address” into Google, and it will display your public IP address at the top of the search results. 2. How to Check Your Local IP Address (Windows)
If you need to identify your computer on your home network, you need the local IP address.
Open Command Prompt: Press the Windows Key, type cmd, and press Enter.
Type the Command: In the black command prompt window, type ipconfig and press Enter.
Find the Address: Look for the line that says IPv4 Address. The number listed next to it (e.g., 192.168.x.x) is your local IP address. 3. How to Check Your Local IP Address (macOS) Open System Settings (or System Preferences). Click on Network.
Select your connection type (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Your local IP address will be displayed under the network status. Summary Table Find Public IP Search “What is my IP” on Google Seen by external sites Find Local IP ipconfig in Windows Command Prompt Used for home network troubleshooting
Finding your IP address is a simple process that can be done in a few steps, depending on the device you are using.
If you are trying to change your IP address, or want to understand what information your computer is presenting to the internet, I can help you with those topics, too. How to Find Your IP Address on Windows – Avast