Guide
How to find your IP address
Finding an IP address depends on whether you need the address used inside your local network or the public address visible to internet services.
At a glance
- Local address
- Assigned to a network interface
- Public address
- Address internet services see
Overview
A device can have several IP addresses at once. Your phone or computer normally has a local address on its Wi-Fi or wired network, while a router, carrier, VPN, or proxy may expose a different public address to websites. The right method therefore starts by deciding which address you actually need.
Find the local address
On Windows, network settings and ipconfig can show addresses assigned to interfaces. On Apple devices, network settings show the address for the active connection. The exact screen varies by operating-system version, but the important distinction is the address attached to the interface you are using.
Understand the public address
A public-facing address may belong to your router, mobile carrier, VPN, or proxy rather than directly to one device. Network address translation and privacy services can therefore make the public address differ from the local address shown in device settings.
Sources and review
MOOR's explanatory text is supported by the following source links.
- Find your IP address in Windows — Microsoft
- Connect your Mac to the internet — Apple