In the digital world, devices talk and connect with each other using numbers, not names. These numbers are called IP addresses and are essential for Internet communication. To connect to the internet, your computer uses the IP address of your router. This address is generally given to your router by your internet provider, and it helps all your devices communicate with the internet.

However, in your local network, like your home Wi-Fi or office Ethernet, every device has its unique IP address. IP addresses can either be dynamic or static. The IP address that remains constant is known as a static IP address, while dynamic IP addresses change over time. IP addresses were originally stored in a 32-bit format called IPv4, which consisted of four sets of numbers, numbered 0 through 255. But to accommodate the growing demand for IP addresses, improve security, enhance QoS, simplify network management, future-proof networks, and improve mobile connectivity, we shifted to IPv6. The new IPv6 format uses 128-bit addresses with hexadecimal digits, allowing for a greater number of possible addresses to a possible more than 4 billion IP addresses. 

Why would I need to check my IP address?

As we have discussed what an IP address is, it is important to check our IP address when we have problems with our internet connection. Checking our IP address is a skill in this digital age and essential to maintaining smooth internet connectivity, network security, and access to online services. Now you may be wondering, ‘How can I check my IP address?’ If so, here are some simple methods to check your IP address on any device.

Using Command Prompt for Windows

Use the command prompt to determine the different signature addresses that are associated with your device when it is online. To open the Run dialog box on Windows, press the Windows button and R. Enter "cmd" after typing it. By doing this, the command prompt window will open. Type 'ipconfig' into the command prompt window and hit Enter. The IPv4 address is located under the network adaptor that you are currently using. There, the IP address of your device will be shown.

Using Terminal (MacOS/Linux)

Open the terminal by opening it from the Applications folder or by searching for it. Input "ifconfig" and hit Return. Locate the network interface you are now using, which is usually indicated by eth0 or en0. Your IP address can be found by locating the address that follows the "inet" or "inet addr" entry.

Using mobile devices

  • On iOS

Go to Settings > Wi-Fi (or Cellular) > Your Network Name. Your IP address will be displayed there.

  • On Android

Go to Settings > Wi-Fi > Network & Internet.

Your IP address will be listed there.

Using Command Line Tools (Advanced)

For advanced users, you can utilize the Command Prompt or Terminal to directly acquire your IP address from web services using tools like curl ifconfig. me and wget -qO-ifconfig.co. 

Using Router Configuration Page

Open your web browser and type the router's IP address into the address bar to view the setup settings. This information is available in the user handbook or on the router. After that, log in by entering your password and username. The router usually has access to this data as well. Go to the network settings or status area to verify your external IP address.

Using a Website

Open your web browser. Go to a website that displays your IP address. One such website where you can easily find your unique IP address is Checkmyiponline. .. The homepage of the website will display your IP address. 

FAQs

How do private and public IP addresses differ from one another?

Consider the WiFi in your home. Similar to your home address, your public IP address serves as an internet identification for your whole network (generic location, not exact address).

Your private IP identifies your device on your Wi-Fi network, not the Internet; it's similar to a room number in your home.

Is it secure to look for my IP address on a website?

Yes, using a website to check your IP address is generally secure. These websites typically show your public IP address, which isn't accurate enough to pinpoint your location. But use caution, and don't post any private information on these websites.

Is it possible for someone else to use my IP address to locate me?

The general neighborhood sign is similar to your IP address. It gives websites (through your internet connection) your approximate location, such as a city or region, but not your exact address.

How can I locate another device on my network by its IP address?

Locating the IP address of a device on your network is a little difficult. Websites can access devices linked to your home network, but they cannot view your public IP address. Here's a brief piece of advice: Check the router's settings, which are often obtainable via a web browser. A list of connected devices, together with their IP addresses, ought to appear on your router. On PCs, this strategy functions best.