How to find your IP address

An IP address, which stands for Internet Protocol address, is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.

A device has two IP addresses – a private IP address and a public IP address. Public IP addresses are globally unique and used to identify a device or network on the public internet. They are assigned by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and are used for communication over the internet. Every device that connects to the internet, such as web servers, email servers, and home routers, must have a public IP address to be reachable from other devices on the internet.

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Private IP addresses are used within a local network (e.g., a home or business network) to identify and communicate with devices within that network. These addresses are not globally unique and cannot be used for direct communication over the internet.

How to find your IP address:

To find your device’s public IP address you can simply type into a search engine ‘what is my IP address?’ Your public IP address will appear in the search results.

To find your private IP address:

Mac

Open ‘System Preferences’ and click on ‘Network’. Your IP address will appear next to the ‘Network Status’ box.

iPhone

In your settings click ‘WiFI’ then choose the network you are connected to. Your IP address will then be displayed.

Windows

Open ‘Network & Internet’ then select properties. Scroll down and you will see your IP address.

Android

Open your WiFI network settings and choose the network you are connected to. Your IP address will then be displayed.

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