What is a public IP address?
Your public IP address is a unique identifier assigned to your internet connection by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It allows websites, apps, and other online services to communicate with your device over the internet.
Unlike private IP addresses, which are used only within your home, office, or local network, your public IP is visible on the internet. This distinction is important because your public IP is what external services (such as, router) use to send data back to your devices, whereas private IPs allow devices to communicate internally.
IPv4 vs IPv6
- IPv4: The most widely used format today, consisting of four numeric groups. For example,
192.168.1.1. It supports around 4 billion unique addresses, which has proven insufficient as the number of connected devices continues to grow. - IPv6: A newer standard with longer alphanumeric addresses. For example,
2001:db8::1. IPv6 was developed to address the shortage of IP addresses and provides virtually unlimited IP addresses for modern networks.
Is this address permanent?
Almost all home users are assigned a dynamic IP, meaning it can change periodically, such as when your router restarts or after a certain period set by your ISP.
Some users, particularly businesses or servers, may use a static IP, which never changes. Static IPs are useful for hosting websites, running remote access services, or ensuring consistent connectivity for certain applications.
Keep it Private
While your IP address doesn’t reveal your exact home address, it can give others your general location and ISP information. Sharing it publicly can expose you to potential security risks, such as network scanning or DDoS attacks. Always share your IP only with trusted sources, and consider using a VPN for added privacy when accessing public networks.
Why check your public IP?
Knowing your public IP can be important for several practical reasons:
- Troubleshooting connectivity issues: Identify problems with your internet connection or check whether your ISP has assigned a new IP address.
- Router and firewall configuration: Set up port forwarding, firewall rules, or parental controls that require knowledge of your network’s public IP.
- Remote access and VPNs: Connect to your home network from anywhere, or verify that your VPN is masking your IP properly.
- Online security monitoring: Track changes to your dynamic IP address to prevent unauthorized access or suspicious activity.