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How to Change Your IP Address — a Step-by-Step Guide

It sounds a bit cloak-and-dagger, but changing your IP address is not only legal, it's easy and can help strengthen your security online. Use our complete guide to learn how to change your IP address on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices — or get a VPN to change your IP automatically.

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How to change your IP address

There are four main ways to change your IP address. Depending on whether you want to boost online privacy or fix your router, the right option will help you get the most out of your device and new IP address.

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Here are the four ways to change your IP address:

How to change your IP address automatically with a VPN

You can change your IP address easily with a VPN (virtual private network) , which will strengthen your security and help you avoid content blocks by connecting through servers based in specific countries, like US VPN servers .

Here’s how to change your IP address with a VPN:

Download and install a trusted VPN like Avast SecureLine VPN.

Open the application.

Toggle the switch to ON . You’ll connect to the best remote server in seconds.

It’s really that simple to set up a VPN . VPNs hide your location by making it appear like you’re from the selected server’s location. Plus, with a VPN, all your data is encrypted . There are many VPN options out there, but avoid completely free ones — they can contain ads and malware.

If you’re unsure if a VPN is right for you, here are some pros and cons:

Pros of a VPN

Evade hackers

Stream from wherever

Avoid content restrictions and censorship

Dodge website tracking

Encrypt your connection

Cons of a VPN

Might slow down connection speed

No standard to gauge quality of service

Some businesses block VPN connections

Won’t stop cookies

If you’re already using a VPN but your connection is choppy, check if your VPN is working properly. And make sure to review the best server countries to connect to through a VPN .

Use a proxy server

A proxy server is similar to a VPN. Rather than connecting directly to a website, proxy servers, VPNs, and even the Tor browser function as intermediaries between you and the internet. But unlike a VPN and Tor, a proxy server will not encrypt your connection.

When you connect to a proxy, it will assign you a fake IP address — effectively changing your true IP address, without any of the extra hassle.

Reset your router

Are your devices not connecting to your router? Sometimes routers give out the wrong IP address — resetting your router may offer a quick fix.

Here’s how to change your IP address on your router:

Find your IP address and note it down. Our IP checker can help you with that.

Unplug your router for at least 5 minutes. It depends on how long your ISP usually takes to reset your IP address.

Plug your router back in and check your IP address again — it should be different after reconnecting.

Resetting your router basically tricks it into thinking your device is new, resulting in your router assigning it a fresh IP address. Also, along with changing your router's DNS settings , resetting your router can help prevent router hacking on your network.

Pros of resetting your router

A new IP address for your device

It’s free, easy, and pretty quick

Cons of resetting your router

Limited internet connection (or none) while it’s unplugged

Might not work immediately

Change your IP address manually

If you already have a new IP address that you want to use, you can manually change it. Rather than a more common dynamic IP , if you get an IP address that you can enter manually it’s most likely a static IP address . Depending on your device, there are a few ways to enter this type of IP address.

Here’s how to manually change your IP address on different devices:

How to change your IP address on Windows 11

Click Start > Settings > Network & Internet .

Click Ethernet or Wi-Fi . Select Manage and then click Edit next to IP assignment .

Under Edit network IP settings , select Automatic (DHCP) or Manual .

If you choose to manually configure your IP address, enable IPv4 and then enter the IP address settings in the IP address , Subnet mask , and Gateway boxes .

Click Save to activate your new settings.

How to change your IP address on Windows 10

Under your local area connection, click Properties .

Under IP assignment, click Edit .

Choose Manual , toggle on IPv4 , and enter the IP address . Then click Save.

How to change your IP address on Mac

Go to System Preferences and click Network .

In the left column, click your Network . Then click Advanced .

Select the TCP/ IP tab. Under Configure IPv4 , select Manually .

Enter your new IP address and click OK.

How to change your IP address on Android

In Android Settings , tap Connections , then Wi-Fi .

Tap Settings (the gear icon) next to your current network .

Tap IP settings and choose Static . Then add your new IP address and tap Save .

How to change your IP address on iOS

In the Settings of your iPhone or iPad, tap Wi-Fi , and choose your Network .

In the IPv4 section, tap Configure IP .

Choose Manual , and enter your new IP address.

Pros of changing your IP address manually

Relatively quick to change

Helpful for geolocation restrictions

More control over network connections

Cons of changing your IP address manually

Manually-defined IPs are usually static IP addresses, which can be tracked and hacked more easily

Manual user setup

Update your IP address automatically

Automatically updating your IP address is like hitting the refresh button. Use this method to automatically refresh your IP address, giving you a new IP to help you evade snoops, hackers, and other cybercriminals — without needing a VPN.

Here’s how to change your IP address on Windows, Android, Mac, and iOS automatically:

Update your IP address automatically on Windows

Press the Win + R keys at the same time.

In the Run dialog, type cmd . Click OK .

Type ipconfig /release (including spaces) and press Enter .

Type ipconfig /renew (including spaces) and press Enter . Close the Command Prompt.

Update your IP address automatically on Mac

Go to System Preferences , click Network .

Click the TCP/ IP tab. Then click Renew DHCP lease .

Update your IP address automatically on Android

In Android Settings , tap Connections , and select Wi-Fi .

Click Forget .

Reconnect to your Network and you should have a new IP address.

Update your IP address automatically on iOS

In iOS Settings , tap Wi-Fi , then choose your Network .

In the IPv4 address section, tap Configure IP , then select Automatic .

Pros of changing your IP address automatically

Usually updates to a dynamic IP address, which is more secure

Doesn’t require a VPN

Cons of changing your IP address automatically

Requires manual refresh

Won’t change your geolocation like a VPN does

What is an IP address?

An IP address is a string of numbers that identifies any device on a network. Computers use IP addresses to communicate with one another over the internet and other networks. IP addresses contain location information that help devices, routers, and websites identify themselves and send and receive information.

Why change your IP address?

Changing your IP address can help you evade hackers, snoops, and other forms of surveillance. Because you’re hiding who you are and where you’re located (essentially your online identity), you’ll have many privacy and security advantages. And there are other benefits too.

Here’s why you should change your IP address (jump down below to learn about the different types of IP addresses ):

Protect your online privacy: Changing your IP address will hide your geolocation, masking you from hackers , your ISP, and websites that use web tracking. Your IP address can also be used to spy on your private internet traffic — changing it will protect your online activity.

Avoid website bans: Some governments use IP addresses to restrict access to certain websites. Changing your IP address can help you hide from government censors, unblock restricted websites , and access a free and open internet.

Access regional content: Due to geo-blocking , you may have trouble streaming a game from your favorite sports team when abroad, or get blocked trying to watch a show available only in certain countries. By changing your IP address, you can get around content blocks by making websites think you’re coming from an approved region.

Troubleshoot internet issues: New routers often give the wrong IP address to devices. Manually changing your IP address can solve this problem. It can also help gamers experiencing laggy gameplay.

Remember, it’s totally legal to change your IP address. As long as you’re not doing anything criminal, you have nothing to worry about. People routinely change or hide their IP addresses for many reasons, and you can try it for yourself today with Avast SecureLine VPN .

Types of IP addresses

There are a few different types of IP addresses — all with their own unique functions. Although they’re all useful, different situations call for different IP addresses. Knowing the differences between them can help you make the right cybersecurity choices for your network.

Here are the different types of IP addresses:

Public IP address

A public IP address is assigned to your network router by your internet service provider (ISP). A public IP functions as the point of contact between your network and the public internet. Websites identify your network and connect to it through your public IP address.

A public IP address can be traced back to your ISP — they use it to monitor your location and activities. Websites also use your public IP address for web tracking . The simple Google query “What is my IP address?” will show you your device’s current IP address, but don’t be surprised if you see an IPv6 and an IPv4 address listed — IPv6 addresses are more common now.

Check out our guide to hiding your IP address to help protect your privacy.

Private IP address

A private IP address is assigned to your device by your network router. Each device on your network gets a unique private IP address — letting them all communicate over your network without connecting directly to the public internet. A private IP address is like a set of house keys, keeping intruders out of your device.

Learn more about the differences between public and private IP addresses .

Dynamic IP address

A dynamic IP address is designed for temporary use. Because there are a limited number of IP addresses available, a dynamic address is a way to recycle IP addresses. After a certain period of time, your ISP will take back the dynamic address and assign another one to your network from a pool of options.

Dynamic addresses are the most common type of IP address — they’re frequently used for consumer equipment. Although they change on their own, it’s helpful to know how to change your dynamic IP address for added protection.

Static IP address

A static IP address is fixed and doesn’t change. If your ISP assigned you a static IP, you’ll probably have it until your device dies or there’s a change in your network architecture. Generally, a static IP address is best for a business or an organization with servers.

Read more about the differences between static and dynamic IP addresses .

Whatever your IP address is, get proper privacy online

Changing your IP address seems like a secret spy technique — but it’s easy and completely legal. But simply changing your IP address is not enough to ensure robust privacy and security. For true online protection, use a VPN — like Avast SecureLine VPN .

Avast SecureLine VPN offers full encryption so you can hide your online activity from your ISP, your employer, hackers, and anyone else trying to uncover your online activity. Plus, you can safely use public Wi-Fi and access your favorite content anywhere in the world. You don’t need to be a spy to get world-class online privacy.

Change Your IP Address Automatically

Install Avast SecureLine VPN for iPhone or iPad to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

Download Avast SecureLine VPN for PC to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

Download Avast SecureLine VPN for Mac to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

Install Avast SecureLine VPN for Android to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

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How to Change Your IP Address

If you need to spoof your IP address, there are a few ways to do it

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• The Wireless Connection
• Routers & Firewalls
• Network Hubs
• Installing & Upgrading
• Wi-Fi & Wireless

What to Know

• Windows: Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings and follow the instructions below.
• Mac: System Preferences > Network . Select a network > Advanced . Go to the TCP/IP tab and select Manually . Enter info.
• iOS: Open Settings > Wi-Fi , tap the circled i next to the network, select Configure IP > Manual . Set up the new IP.

This article explains how to change your IP address manually by switching from the router's assigned DHCP address to a static one on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It also covers how to change your router's public IP address, which appears as the public IP address of every device on the network unless you use a VPN.

You can also get a new IP by releasing and renewing your IP .

Change a Windows Computer's IP Address

If your Windows computer has the IP address set up as a static one, change the IP address as follows:

Open Control Panel and select Network and Sharing Center . If you don't see it, first select Network and Internet .

Choose Change adapter settings .

Double-click the connection that you want to change the IP address on. For example, to change the wireless adapter's IP address, double-click the one that mentions Wi-Fi.

Select Properties .

Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) .

Either alter the IP address or select Obtain an IP address automatically to have the router control the IP address.

If you leave the setting to obtain an IP address automatically, the router automatically assigns an IP address to the computer. However, when you enter the IP address information, the computer's IP address stays static.

Leave Obtain DNS server address automatically selected. Otherwise, your DNS server settings remain empty, which may cause other connection issues.

Change a Mac Computer's IP Address

Here's how to change the IP address on a Mac.

Open the System Preferences app on the Mac and select Network .

Select your Wi-Fi network in the left panel and click Advanced .

Select the TCP/IP tab.

Select Manually in the drop-down menu next to Configure IPv6 (or iPv4) and enter the information for the new IP.

Change a Phone's IP Address on iPhone

You can also change the IP address on a mobile device such as the Apple iPhone as follows:

Open the  Settings  app and select Wi-Fi .

Tap the small ( i ) next to the network and select Configure IP .

Choose Manual . Enter the network details manually, such as your IP address and DNS information.

The choice of a specific local IP address does not affect the network performance in any meaningful way.

Change a Phone's IP Address on Android

It's also possible to change an Android device's IP to a static IP on your network.

Android phones can vary depending on the manufacturer of the device. Some manufacturers alter the Android OS to meet their specifications, which means the steps you need to follow may differ slightly from those listed here. These steps should apply to most Android devices.

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

Tap the network that you want to change the IP address for.

Select Forget .

Tap the network from the list of available Wi-Fi networks.

Select Advanced options .

Choose Static .

Scroll down and fill out the IP address fields.

Enter the Wi-Fi password at the top of the screen.

Select Connect .

Change a Router's IP Address

To change the router's IP address, log in to the router as an administrator. From the control panel, change the IP address to whatever you like. However, this IP address is usually changed when there's a problem with it. The default IP address should suffice for most situations.

How to Change Your Public IP Address

An external public IP address is the address used to communicate with networks outside of your own, such as those on the internet. Use a VPN to mask or hide your real IP address. You can also use a web proxy to mask your public IP.

Why Change Your IP Address?

Some ISPs assign static IP addresses to their subscribers. Home users are commonly configured with a dynamic IP address . Either way, you may be able to contact your ISP to request a new static IP or a dynamic IP change. You can't change your external internet IP address on your own.

Some people change their public external IP address to avoid online bans or bypass country location restrictions that some sites impose on video content.

Changing the IP address of a client computer, phone, or router is useful when:

• An invalid address is accidentally configured, such as a static IP address in the wrong numeric range.
• A malfunctioning router provides bad addresses, such as an address used by another computer on the network.
• Installing a new router and reconfiguring a home network to use its default IP address range.

No. There are many reasons someone may want to change their IP address. However, if you're on a work setup or have a home network running, messing with IP addresses can sometimes cause headaches, so make sure you know what you're doing.

It's possible but not probable. If you're power-cycling your router , the address likely won't change. Still, if you reset your router to factory defaults, it's more likely the device will assign new addresses.

Yes, you can. However, you need third-party software. A VPN , or virtual private network, gives you unique IP addresses in places anywhere on earth.

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Change TCP/IP settings

TCP/IP defines how your PC communicates with other PCs.

To make it easier to manage TCP/IP settings, we recommend using automated Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). DHCP automatically assigns Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to the computers on your network if your network supports it. If you use DHCP, then you don't have to change your TCP/IP settings if you move your PC to another location, and DHCP doesn't require you to manually configure TCP/IP settings, such as Domain Name System (DNS) and Windows Internet Name Service (WINS).

To enable DHCP or change other TCP/IP settings

Select  Start , then type settings . Select  Settings  >  Network & internet .

Do one of the following:

For a Wi-Fi network, select  Wi-Fi  >  Manage known networks . Choose the network for which you want to change the settings.

For an Ethernet network, select  Ethernet , then select the Ethernet network you’re connected to.

Next to  IP assignment , select  Edit .

Under  Edit network IP settings or Edit IP settings , select  Automatic (DHCP)  or  Manual .

To specify IPv4 settings manually

Under  Edit network IP settings or Edit IP settings , choose  Manual , then turn on  IPv4 .

To specify an IP address, in the  IP address, Subnet mask , and  Gateway  boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify a DNS server address, in the  Preferred DNS  and  Alternate DNS  boxes, type the addresses of the primary and secondary DNS servers.

To specify if you want to use an encrypted (DNS over HTTPS) or unencrypted connection to the DNS server or servers you specify, for DNS over HTTPS , choose the setting you want:

Off : All DNS queries will be sent to the DNS server unencrypted in plaintext over HTTP.

On (automatic template) : DNS queries will be encrypted and sent to the DNS server over HTTPS. DNS queries will use the default settings for the automatic template or try to discover them automatically.

On (manual template) : DNS queries will be encrypted and sent to the DNS server over HTTPS. They’ll use the settings you enter in the DNS over HTTPS template box.

If you use DNS over HTTPS (automatic or manual template), turn Fallback to plaintext on or off:

When it’s turned on, a DNS query will be sent unencrypted if it can’t be sent over HTTPS.

When it’s turned off, a DNS query won’t be sent if it can’t be sent over HTTPS.

To specify IPv6 settings manually

Under  Edit network IP settings or Edit IP settings , choose  Manual , then turn on  IPv6 .

To specify an IP address, in the  IP address , Subnet prefix length , and  Gateway  boxes, type the IP address settings.

When you select  Automatic (DHCP) , the IP address settings and DNS server address setting are set automatically by your router or other access point (recommended).

When you select  Manual , you can manually set your IP address settings and DNS server address.

When you’re done, select  Save .

Note:  To install IPv4, run Command Prompt as an administrator, type netsh interface ipv4 install , and then press Enter .

Select Start   , then select Settings   > Network & Internet   .

For a Wi-Fi network, select Wi-Fi   > Manage known networks . Choose the network you want to change the settings for, then select Properties.

For an Ethernet network, select Ethernet , then select the Ethernet network you’re connected to.

Under IP assignment , select Edit .

Under Edit IP settings , select Automatic (DHCP) or Manual .

Under Edit IP settings , choose Manual , then turn on IPv4 .

To specify an IP address, in the IP address, Subnet prefix length , and Gateway boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify a DNS server address, in the Preferred DNS and Alternate DNS boxes, type the addresses of the primary and secondary DNS servers.

Under Edit IP settings , choose Manual , then turn on IPv6 .

When you select Automatic (DHCP) , the IP address settings and DNS server address setting are set automatically by your router or other access point (recommended).

When you select Manual , you can manually set your IP address settings and DNS server address.

When you’re done, select Save .

In Windows 8.1, select the Start button, start typing View network connections , and then select View network connections in the list.

In Windows 7, open Network Connections by selecting the Start button, and then selecting Control Panel . In the search box, type adapter , and then, under Network and Sharing Center , select View network connections .

Right-click the connection that you want to change, and then select Properties . If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Select the Networking tab. Under This connection uses the following items , select either Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) , and then select Properties .

To specify IPv4 IP address settings, do one of the following:

To get IP settings automatically using DHCP, select Obtain an IP address automatically , and then select OK .

To specify an IP address, select Use the following IP address , and then, in the IP address, Subnet mask , and Default gateway boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify IPv6 IP address settings, do one of the following:

To get IP settings automatically using DHCP, select Obtain an IPv6 address automatically , and then select OK .

To specify an IP address, select Use the following IPv6 address , and then, in the IPv6 address, Subnet prefix length , and Default gateway boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify DNS server address settings, do one of the following:

To get a DNS server address automatically using DHCP, select Obtain DNS server address automatically , and then select OK .

To specify a DNS server address, select Use the following DNS server addresses , and then, in the Preferred DNS server and Alternate DNS server boxes, type the addresses of the primary and secondary DNS servers.

To change advanced DNS, WINS, and IP settings, select Advanced .

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Setting the IP address on your PC or mobile computer

To access the ASMI through a Web browser you first need to set the IP address on your PC or mobile computer. The following procedures describe setting the IP address on PC and mobile computers running Microsoft® Windows® and Linux®.

Setting the IP address in Windows XP and Windows 2000

To set the IP address within Windows XP and Windows 2000, complete these steps.

• Click Start >Settings >Control Panel .
• On the control panel, double-click Network Connections .
• Right-click Local Area Connection .
• Click Install .
• Select Protocol , and then click Add .
• Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) .
• Click OK to return to the Local Area Connection Properties window.
• Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) , and then click Properties .
• Select Use the Following IP Address .
• Complete the IP address , Subnet mask , and Default gateway fields by using the values in step 4 from Accessing the ASMI using a Web Browser.
• Click OK on the Local Area Connection Properties window. It is not necessary to restart your PC.

Setting the IP address in Linux

To set the IP address in Linux, complete these steps. You will need the information from step 4 in Accessing the ASMI using a Web Browser to complete step 4 in the following procedure.

• Make sure you are logged on as a root user.
• Start a terminal session.
• Type ifconfig at the command prompt. Attention: Record or print the current settings before making any changes. This allows you to restore these settings if you disconnect the PC or mobile computer after setting up the ASMI Web interface.
• Type ifconfig eth0 xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx netmask xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx , where the xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx values are the values from step 4 for IP address and Subnet mask.
• Press Enter.

Why You Would Want to Change Your IP Address and How to Do It

Whenever you connect to another device or website by going online, your IP address is used to identify your computer. It can be used to locate your machine and trace your online activities. As a matter of fact, your IP address is currently displayed at the top of this screen along with any other identifying information that can be derived from the address.

Anytime you go online, a record of where you have been is kept due to your IP address being logged at the site being accessed. There is no getting around this fact, though we will talk about some ways that you might get around this issue if you need or want to. Your IP address is a little like fingerprints except for one important aspect. Though with extreme techniques you may be able to modify your fingerprints, it’s a lot easier to change your IP address.

Why Would You Want to Change IP addresses on Your Computer?

There are a variety of reasons that you may want to change your IP address. Here are some common and more esoteric motivations for changing your computer’s IP address. Learning how to change IP address can be beneficial in all of these scenarios.

How to Change Your IP Address

We are going to talk about how to change your IP address using a few different methods. Basically, there are three main ways to change an IP address. They are:

Manually Change IP Address

Automatically change ip address, use a vpn or proxy server to change ip address.

Let’s take a closer look at each method and discuss their pros and cons. There are also some differences in how you handle static versus dynamically assigned IP addresses. Obviously, the operating system that you are using will impact the way you go about this procedure.

Static addresses that are assigned by your ISP can only be changed by contacting your provider. This type of address is not usually given out without purchasing an increased level of service and is normally seen in a corporate or business setting. You will rarely have to deal with a static IP address on your home machine.

You may need to change the IP address of a computer in an office or corporate setting in order to gain access to a private network. Depending on your platform, here are the steps you need to perform.

How to Change IP address on a Mac

• Select System Preferences .
• Choose Network .
• Select an active network interface from the sidebar.
• Note your current IP address so you can make an informed change.
• Click the Advanced button.
• Select TCP/IP .
• Select Manually from the Configure IPv4 menu.
• Enter a static IP address in the IPv4 Address field .
• Click OK and then click Apply .

How to Change IP address on a Windows 10 Computer

• Open Network and Sharing Center in Control Panel.
• Click on the Connections link.
• Click on the properties tab of the window that opens.
• Select Internet Protocol version 4 (TCP/IP v4) .
• Choose Use the following IP address and fill in the IP address.
• Select Use the following DNS server and enter the appropriate address.
• Check the Validate settings upon exit box and click OK .
• Your PC automatically runs network diagnostics and verifies your connection.

Other versions of Windows may require a different procedure to be used. We suggest you consult the User Guide for your specific OS.

Here are a few ways to change the IP address on your home computer. This address is provided by your router, which is assigned the address by your ISP. Before trying any of these methods, make note of your current IP address so you can verify that it has indeed changed.

Turning off your router for about five minutes might be all you need to do. In some cases, a longer period of time is required, so you can try leaving the router turned off overnight. Even though your IP address is dynamically assigned by the provider, your ISP may have a long lease time on your address. This means it will appear to be static since you will not be able to change it until the time period enforced by the ISP has elapsed.

Taking your laptop to a location that offers free WiFi and connecting to the network will temporarily change your machine’s IP address as it is dynamically assigned when you log in. When you return home, your address will be assigned based on your home router.

The methods described above may be necessary and sufficient when changing your IP address for configuration purposes. If your goal is to defeat geo-blocking initiatives or simply to maintain your online privacy, then other tactics must be employed. This is where a proxy server or a VPN can be extremely useful.

Essentially, when you use a proxy or VPN you are masking the IP address of your machine. When you are connected to a proxy server, its IP address is what is seen on the Internet, not your machine’s IP address. This eliminates the ability of anyone to track you once you are on the proxy server.

A VPN service works in a similar way but offers more options than directly connecting to a proxy server. VPN services have servers located in multiple locations throughout the world. After you connect to the VPN server, your private IP address is masked and any further online activities will only display the VPN server’s address.

Quality VPN services have servers located in many countries, and by choosing an appropriate one, you can get around just about any restrictions enforced by your local authorities or your ISP.

There are many VPNs available. Some are free, but if you are serious about maintaining online privacy, you should spend the few dollars a month that it will cost for a paid VPN service. The quality paid VPNs that you can choose from include NordVPN , ExpressVPN , and CyberGhost .

There you have it. You should be able to change your IP address if you need to and by using a proxy or VPN you can change it when you want to hide your identity. If you value your online privacy, a VPN is highly recommended.

Read next in All about Wi-Fi

Other articles.

• Press the Windows key and R to get to the Run dialog.
• Then press Command and Enter .
• Finally, type in "ipconfig /release" and press Enter .

• 7 Understand that a dialog box may pop up. A dialog box saying "Since this connection is currently active, some settings will not take effect until the next time you dial it" may pop up. This is normal. Click "ok."Image:Change Your IP Address Step 7.jpg

Changing Your IP Address on Mac OS

• Connection time

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

Community Q&A

• This is a helpful website to see your IP address and to see if it actually worked: http://whatismyipaddress.com/ Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

• Sometimes, if they're really lucky (or you're really unlucky and got a bad IP address) they might even pinpoint your district! Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1
• For Windows 7 only. Other OS users such as Mac and Linux try another website. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1
• Sadly, however many times you change your IP address, websites can still pinpoint your country and (if lucky) your city. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 4
• It might not work every time. This is why you need to check using the website shown at Tips. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 4

You Might Also Like

• http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/25949-42-change-address-windows
• http://osxdaily.com/2010/01/26/how-to-set-a-manual-ip-address-in-mac-os-x/

About This Article

1. Disable your internet connection. 2. Open Control Panel. 3. Open Network and Sharing Center . 4. Right-click the connection and select Properties . 5. Open TCP/IP IPv4 properties. 6. Specify 111.111.111.111 as the IP. 7. Press the Tab key and then click OK . 8. Re-open TCP/IP IPv4 properties. 9. Select "Obtain an IP address automatically." 10. Click OK . Did this summary help you? Yes No

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A VPN Isn't the Only Way to Change Your IP Address

Whether you use a virtual private network or not, changing your IP address is totally legal. Here are the four easiest ways on Mac, Windows and mobile.

Changing your IP address is easy, safe and legal. 

Even without a user-friendly virtual private network , it's still easy to change your IP address. Whether you're a MacOS and iPhone user or a Windows 11 user with an Android device, any first-timer can safely change their IP address in a few quick steps. And -- as long as you're not using it to break other laws -- it's perfectly legal. Your computer and phone have several types of IP addresses (short for Internet Protocol, a unique series of numbers that identify your specific device with your online browsing), but we'll focus on the type normally changed to protect your privacy as you browse and those that make you appear like you're in a different country. 

There are four simple ways to change your IP address in under five minutes. Jumping behind a proxy server or a VPN is the best way to not only temporarily change your IP address, but also protect your privacy. If you just want to change your IP address without the additional privacy boost, you can either enter your preferred IP manually, or you can just force your device to retrieve a new one automatically. 

Keep in mind, changing your IP address will temporarily disrupt whatever internet-connected services or programs you're using on your device. There's no harm done, but it's going to have the same effect as if you'd momentarily lost your Wi-Fi. Your Spotify might hiccup. Media streaming services will have a momentary brain freeze. If you're sending or receiving files, you may need to start over. And you might have to log back in to whatever secure site you're currently using. 

Here are the quickest and easiest ways to change your IP address.

Read more:   Best VPN for School Wi-Fi 2022

How to change your IP address with a VPN or proxy server 

You can use a VPN to change your IP address.

When you use any of the virtual private networks we've reviewed in our directory , the service will automatically make you appear as though you have a different IP address originating from whatever country you select. Literally just open your VPN app and connect to any city other than your current one -- in less than 30 seconds, you've changed your IP so it appears to be from wherever you chose. 

Browser-based VPNs and proxies are much more lightweight than standalone VPN apps. There are some key privacy differences that I've detailed elsewhere, but when you use a proxy, it also changes your visible IP address. Chrome, Firefox and Brave Browser all have their own versions of proxies and browser-based VPNs that you can try for yourself.

Setting up a VPN on your iPhone or Android device is as easy as installing any other app on your phone, and I've got a step-by-step guide in case you'd like to see how to do it. If you're gaming from a console, I've also got a quick walkthrough for you on setting up a VPN on an Xbox along with a list of the ones that performed best in my tests.

If you've never toyed with VPNs but are considering one, I've got the Cliff's Notes version of how to pick the right one , which you might find helpful. Whatever you do, just avoid free VPNs . Seriously not worth the malware risk. Instead, pivot to the cheapest ones that I've test-driven for you.

How to change your IP address by unplugging the router

Changing your IP address is as easy as unplugging your router.

The easiest and quickest way to get a new IP address is to see what your IP address is via an IP-checking site , then walk over to your router and unplug it for at least five minutes. It may take several minutes longer, depending on how long your ISP normally takes to renew IP addresses in general. Once you plug it back in, refresh the website to make sure your IP address has changed.

Essentially, what you're trying to do is make the IP-assigning part of your router "forget" your device so that it treats your device like a newcomer and gives it a new address. This isn't foolproof, however. Sometimes it takes multiple tries, and in some cases you may have to leave the router off overnight. If you have a router that's separate from your modem (most are a combination device these days) you may need to unplug the modem and router, leave them off for 5 minutes or so, then first power the modem on, followed by the router. 

But getting off the couch is overrated. 

How to automatically update your IP address on Mac, iOS, Windows and Android

Changing your IP address will better protect your browsing.

Here's how to do this on Mac, iOS, Windows and Android: 

MacOS : Click your Apple icon in the top left corner of your screen, and click System Preferences then Network then Advanced . At the top of the next screen, click TCP/IP , then click the Renew DHCP Lease button on the right side of the window. 

iOS : Go to Settings , tap Network and choose the wireless network you're currently on. Under the IPv4 address section, tap Configure IP then Automatic .

Windows 10 : Press the Win+R keys at the same time. This opens the Run box dialog. Type cmd , then hit Enter on your keyboard. This opens the command prompt. 

For those who've never seen a Windows command prompt before: This is the part where you will either be immediately terrified something is about to get broken, or you will suddenly feel like you're about to do something extremely cool. Do not panic; neither of those things is going to happen. The magic black box has that effect on everyone their first time. 

Type ipconfig /release (including the space) into the command prompt and hit Enter. Some text will zoom by. When it stops, type ipconfig /renew and hit Enter again. Then close your command prompt. You're done. 

Android : Go to Settings , tap Connections then tap Wi-Fi . From here, tap on the network you're currently connected to. Tap the gear-shaped icon to the right of the network. Your IP address will be displayed here, but go to the bottom of the screen and -- after making sure you've got your Wi-Fi password handy -- tap Forget (it's the trash icon in the bottom-right corner). Your phone will forget the Wi-Fi network and be disconnected. Just reconnect to your network, and you should be issued a new IP address. 

How to manually change your IP address 

Here's what to do if you've already got a new IP address that you know you want to use.

MacOS : Go to System Preferences and click Network . Click Network Connection , then click Configure IPv4 . Select Manually and type in whatever IP you've chosen. 

iOS : Go to Settings , tap Wi-Fi , then Network . Under the IPv4 address section, tap Configure IP . Manually type in whatever IP address you're trying to use. 

Windows : Make sure you're working from your Administrator account and click Start , then go to Control Panel . From here, click Network Connection , and then click on your local area connection. Next, click Properties , then click TCP/IP . From here, you can type your new IP address in manually. 

Android : Go to Settings , tap Connections then tap Wi-Fi . From here, tap on the network you're currently connected to. Tap the gear-shaped icon to the right of the network. Your IP address will be displayed here, but go to the bottom of the screen and tap Advanced , then tap IP Settings . Select Static . The next screen will let you manually type in whatever IP address you've chosen.  

For more, check out everything to know about the Tor browser , three browser-based VPNs to try , and the browser privacy settings you should change right away . 

If you're tooling around with IP address changes, you might have some other questions. Here are some of the most common questions we've been asked. 

Is it legal to change your IP address?

Yes, it's legal to change your IP address in the US. People change their IP addresses routinely when facing direct attacks on their online security, when testing a website before it goes live, or when they simply prefer to protect their privacy. Obviously, this FAQ is in no way offering legal advice and you should consult a licensed attorney for specific questions, but the legal boundaries on IP address changes usually start with what you change your IP to, and what you do with that new IP address. 

If you've changed your IP to impersonate an individual or a business -- often called IP spoofing -- you could be running afoul of the US Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. You might also run into trouble if you're changing your IP address to access a website you've been banned from. IP spoofing is also a tool used by some cybercriminals to perform a handful of well-known attacks, most commonly those related to identity theft and those aimed at crippling websites with organized distributed denial of service bombardment. 

Why should I change my IP address?

Routinely changing your external, or public IP address, can help you improve your overall security and browsing privacy. There are other reasons, too. If you've just installed a new home router, you may need to reconfigure your network with a quick IP change. One common problem among home routers is that they sometimes give devices the wrong IP address, so changing your IP manually can solve those glitches. 

If you want to access a country's catalog of streaming media services when you're outside of that country for whatever reason, changing your IP to one based in the right country can get you the catalog you're looking for. Likewise, if you're a gamer looking to lower your lag, changing your IP via a gaming proxy server can help improve performance. One neat tech trick for second-language learners is to use an IP address based in another country to generate search results and local publications written in the local language. 

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• Main content

How to change your IP address to troubleshoot your internet connection or protect your privacy

• You can change your local IP address from the network settings controls menu on a PC, Mac, or phone.
• Your public IP address can be changed by resetting your router or connecting to a VPN.
• You might need to change your IP address for technical or security reasons.

Your computer, like every device that connects to the internet, has an IP (Internet Protocol) address. It's a series of numbers interspersed with decimal points (for example, "198.169.0.101"), and acts like a home address that identifies where other devices can find your computer. 

It's rare that you need to know your computer's IP address, but should you need it, it's easy to find (for details, see our articles on how to find the IP address for Windows or the IP address on a Mac) .

Here's everything to know about changing both your local and public IP addresses.

How to change your public IP address

No matter what kind of computer you have — Windows or Mac — it's pretty easy to change your public IP address.

Your public IP address is usually set by your internet service provider (ISP), and you can't choose it yourself. However, you can "coax" it to change in any of several different ways:

• Change your network or location : Your public IP address will change based on where and how you connect to the internet. If you have a phone with LTE, for example, turning off Wi-Fi so it uses that LTE signal will compel it to use a different IP address. You can also connect to a different Wi-Fi network.
• Reboot your internet modem : When you reboot the modem (turn it off, wait two to three minutes, then turn it back on) it'll refresh all the IP addresses on the network. 
• Connect with a VPN : A VPN (Virtual Private Network) hides your public IP address, and connects you to a server in a different location with a different IP address. When you use a VPN, you don't get to choose the IP address directly, but you can usually choose what geographic region you want to appear to come from, which will determine what IP addresses the VPN software will use to identify you.  

If all else fails, contact your ISP and ask them to change your IP address. They might not be able to do it, but there's no harm in asking.

How to change your local IP address in Windows

1. Click the Start button and then click "Settings."

2. Click "Network & Internet."

3. In the navigation pane on the left, click "Wi-Fi" and then click the name of your Wi-Fi network. If you're connected with an Ethernet cable, select "Ethernet."

4. On the details page for your Wi-Fi network, scroll down to the IP settings section and click "Edit." With Ethernet, click "Properties."

5. Finally, in the Edit IP settings dialog box, click "Automatic (DHCP)" and choose "Manual." Then turn on IPv4 by swiping the button to the right and enter the details of the new IP address. Click "Save."

How to change your local IP address on a Mac

1. In the Apple menu, click "System Preferences."

2. Click "Network."

3. In the pane on the left, select the network you're connected to, and then click "Advanced" at the bottom right of the window. 

4. Click the "TCP/IP" tab at the top. 

5. In the Configure using IPv4 section, click "Using DHCP" and then choose "Manually."

6. Finally, enter the details of the new IP address. Click "OK."

How to change the local IP address on a mobile device

Like any internet-connected device, your phone has its own IP address. If you have a compelling reason to, you can change your IP address for your phone as well.

For both iPhone and Android, you can customize the IP address from the Wi-Fi settings page. For step-by-step details on how to do this, see our articles " How to change the IP address on your iPhone " and " How to change the IP address on an Android phone ."

How To Change Your IP Address

Whether to gain more privacy or access certain content, you can change your device’s IP address using the methods in this guide

• How to Change
• What is an IP Address
• Where to Find It
• Pros & Cons
• Your IP address can tell the websites you visit your approximate physical location.
• Changing your IP address is easy. Connect to a VPN to route your online traffic to VPN servers and make it appear as if you’re browsing from somewhere else.
• Using a VPN more than just changes your virtual location. Read our NordVPN review to see all the privacy perks that come with our top-rated VPN.

Even though you may be in cyberspace, you’re still in a specific, virtual location defined by your IP address. But for those who want to stay private, get around government restrictions, and the like, changing your IP address is a simple first step. In this article, we’ll tell you how to change your IP address, step-by-step, along with providing you with more information about the types of IP addresses, the pros and cons of changing them, and more. Get your invisibility cloak ready because we’re about to go private or as private as you can be online.

See the exact steps to changing your IP address on an iPhone, Android, Mac and Windows computer. Also, learn why you would want to change your IP address in the first place.

Pro Tip: Changing your IP address can help you get around website restrictions and censorship, but some apps and services use GPS location. If you’re having trouble changing your GPS location, read our Surfshark review . You’ll appreciate its GPS override feature.

Easily Change Your IP Address with a VPN

Whatever your reasons are for changing your IP address, whether to stream certain content or to gain privacy, using a VPN is one of the most secure ways to do so. A VPN cloaks your real IP address with its own server IP address, and it encrypts your browsing traffic so that no one else sees what you’re doing online. Change your IP address with a single mouse click with these VPNs that we tested ourselves:

Besides using a VPN to change your IP address, which we’ll discuss further below how to do, there are a few other ways to change your IP address.

One of the most straightforward ways is to adjust your device’s settings. This, however, only works if your network has an available address to which you can change your current IP address. In addition, your new IP address will still be tied to your local network, and thus, it can be geo-tracked to your approximate location just like the old one.

How to Change Your IP Address on Mac Manually

• Go to System Preferences.
• Click Network.
• Click Network Connection.
• Click Configure IPv4.
• Select Manually.
• Type in your IP address.

How to Change Your IP Address on Windows Manually

• Click Administrator Account.
• Click Start.
• Click Control Panel.
• Select Local Area Connection.
• Click Properties.
• Select TCP/IP.
• Type in the IP address.

How to Change Your IP Address on Android Manually

• Go to your Android Settings.
• Navigate to Wireless & Networks.
• Click on your Wi-Fi network.
• Click Modify Network.
• Select Advanced Options.
• Change the IP address.

How to Change Your IP Address on iOS Manually

• Go to your iOS device’s Settings.
• Click Wi-Fi.
• Select IPv4 Address.
• Click Configure IP.
• Enter your IP address.

How to Change Your IP Address on Router Manually

• Turn off your router.
• Turn it back on a day later.
• Go to your administrative interface and reconnect to your ISP.

If you want your device to pick a new IP address for you automatically, here’s what to do.

How to Change Your IP Address on Mac Automatically

• Go to your Mac’s System Preferences app.
• Select Network Connection.
• Click Configure iPv4.
• Select Using DHCP.

How to Change Your IP Address on Windows Automatically

• Enter your Administrator Account.
• Go to Network Connections.
• Click Location Area Connection.
• Click Obtain An IP Address Automatically 1

How to Change Your IP Address on Android Automatically

• Click Settings.
• Select Connections.
• Select the network you’re on currently.
• Click Advanced.
• Select either DHCP or Static.

How to Change Your IP Address on iOS Automatically

• Go to your iPhone or iPad’s Settings.
• Select Network.
• Select your network.
• Click IPv4 Address.
• Choose Automatic.

If you don’t already have a new IP address or you don’t want one the automatic address from your device, then you can connect to a Virtual Private Network or VPN. VPNs will replace your IP address and encrypt all of your web activity. You may get the same IP address every time you connect (static), or a different one each time (dynamic). Some VPNs also offer dedicated IP addresses, if you want to be the only one with that address. With any VPN:

How to Change Your IP Address with a VPN

• Download the VPN app.
• Create an account.
• Click Connect.

We choose NordVPN as our best VPN for speed and security. Find out for yourself .

To learn more, read about the best VPN for every occasion or our comprehensive VPN guide .

A sister to VPNs is proxy servers , intermediary devices that hide IP addresses. 2 Here’s how to connect to a proxy server on your Mac, Windows, Android or iOS device.

How to Connect to Proxy Server on Mac

• Open Safari, Macs’ default browser.
• Click Preferences.
• Select Change Settings.
• Update the Settings with the information that the network administrator provided in the System Preferences pop-up.

How to Connect to Proxy Server on Windows

• Go to your Administrative Templates.
• Select Windows Components.
• Click Data Collection and Preview Builds.
• Click Configure Authenticated Proxy Usage.
• Select Disable Authenticated Proxy Usage.

How to Connect to Proxy Server on Android

• Go to your Android’s Settings.
• Select Wi-Fi.
• Select your networks’ name.
• Hit Modify Network.
• Select Manual.
• Enter in your proxy port and hostname.
• Click Save.

How to Connect to Proxy Server on iOS

• Enter your phone or tablet’s Settings.
• Click on the “I” button next to username.
• Click HTTP Proxy.
• Select Edit Proxy Settings.
• Turn on Authentication.
• Return to the previous window.

Tor is a secure browser that, along with hiding your IP address, will also prevent tracking and targeted ads. Once you’re off a website, its cookies will clear as will your browsing history. Both your IP address and your web activity will be encrypted not once, not twice but three times. 3 Just download the browser from Tor’s website to hide your IP address when browsing online!

Note: Although the websites you visit won’t be able to see your private IP address, Tor will log it themselves, according to their Privacy Notice. If you don’t want your IP address logged, choose a VPN with a strict privacy policy.

What Is An IP Address?

Of course, some people may not be totally clear on what an IP address actually is; no shame here! An IP address, which standards for an internet protocol address, is a device’s identifying number associated with a specific computer or network of computers. Basically, IP addresses let computers send and receive information, but they can also be used to track the physical locations of users, 4 a nightmare for those concerned with privacy. And according to our VPN usage research , that accounts for 40 percent of VPN-users.

Types of IP Addresses

Not all IP addresses are created equal! Rather, they can be divided into a few different categories, some of which have certain advantages over others.

• Public : Each and every internet-connected device has a public IP address, distributed by the Internet Service Providers vis-à-vis the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. What, you haven’t heard of ICANN? Nevertheless, these public IP addresses are searchable on the web, which is why we can find our printer simply by Googling its IP address .
• Private/ local : In contrast to public IP addresses, private IP addresses aren’t searchable on the web. Rather, they’re numbers that routers assign the devices on their networks so that they can communicate with each other.
• Dynamic : Dynamic IP addresses, as we mentioned before, are any type of IP address that change every time you connect, usually through a VPN. This makes users hard to track online, as their literal address keeps changing.
• Static : Static means that the IP addresses do not change. With VPNs, static IP addresses are usually shared with thousands of users in order to obscure their identities. However, some websites block these shared IP addresses, which necessitates users getting dedicated IP addresses. What a convenient transition!
• Dedicated : Dedicated IP addresses are assigned to only one user rather than being shared by several. They usually cost a different fee on top of the regular VPN subscription.

• IPv4 : Internet Protocol version 4 is used by 99 percent of networks, but since it can only store 4.3 billion addresses, it’s being replaced by IPv6, which we’ll get to in a second. Unlike IPv6, IPv4 addresses are four one bite numbers separated by dots like 555.555.1.1.
• IPv6 : While they’re only used by less than 1 percent of networks, IPv6 has its advantages over IPv4, namely that it can provide an infinite number of addresses. It also allows for larger payloads and is compatible with a greater number of mobile networks. Although they’re starting small, eventually, IPv6 will replace IPv4. 5

Where To Find Your IP Address

Feeling lost in the sauce? Finding your IP address isn’t that complicated, even if you’re not a tech expert like us.

Your private information

My ip address.

IP: 57.135.128.207

Status: Unprotected

My IP Information

Internet provider: Blue Stream

City: Coral Springs

Region/ State: Florida

Browser name: Mobile Safari

Browser version: 16.6

Device brand: Apple

Device type: smartphone

Latitude: 26.27288

Longitude: -80.26003

Postal code: 33065

Where to Find Your IP Address on Mac

• Enter your Mac’s System Preferences.
• Select your Wi-Fi network.
• Look where it says IPv4 Address.

Where to Find Your IP Address on Windows

• Enter your TaskBar.
• Click on Wi-Fi Network.
• Look under IPv4 Address.

Where to Find Your IP Address on Android

• Enter your phone’s Settings.
• Click About.
• Click Status.
• Look at the IP Address.

Where to Find Your IP Address on iOS

• Click on the “I” button next to Network.
• ILook under IPv4 Address.

Pros and Cons of Changing Addresses

Of course, there’s always the debate of whether or not to change your IP address in the first place. While the angel on your shoulder tells you it’s a great way to increase your privacy and access other country’s servers, the devil tells you that it could be costly, that some websites won’t work and that your ISP will still be able to see your address. There’s truth to both of these sides, so we recommend making your decisions on a case-by-case basis. That being said, we broke down the main reasons why you should and shouldn’t change your IP address.

Why You Should Change Your IP Address

• Avoid tracking : If you’ve ever searched for anything related to consumerism, then you probably already notice how your searches seem to follow you around the internet like you owe them money. This sort of tracking is made possible by cookies, which some antivirus software can disable.
• Bypass government restrictions : Governments like China greatly restrict internet usage in their country, so if you want to bypass firewalls, changing your IP address is a must.
• Access international servers : Maybe you simply want to see what’s on Netflix Canada from your apartment in California. By changing your IP address to a Canadian one, you can trick the streaming giant into showing you a whole lot of new content.

FYI: Not all VPNs are compatible with Netflix. To find one that’s right for you, read our review of the best VPNs for Netflix .

• Gain privacy : Maybe you’re an activist, a journalist, or anyone else handling sensitive information, or maybe you just don’t want your Internet Service Provider to track your every move. If that’s the case, changing your IP address is a step in the right direction in terms of privacy.
• Increase security : Most people think nothing of joining public Wi-Fi networks (and depending on your settings, this may even happen automatically). However, using public Wi-Fi opens up a slew of security risks, with hacking at the forefront. But by hiding your real IP address, you greatly lower your risk of hackings .

Why You Shouldn’t Change Your IP Address

• Some websites won’t work : Some websites, like the aforementioned Netflix, won’t work with certain VPNs or proxies. So while they may be able to bypass government restrictions, that doesn’t stop individual websites from blocking certain IP addresses.
• Not always legal : Depending on where you are, VPNs may not be legal; they’re banned in China, Belarus, Iran and a few other countries, so keep that in mind before you connect.
• May slow down connection : Any added encryption will slow down your browsing speeds, although the exact slowdowns will differ from service to service. Still, if you’re performing tasks that require a lot of bandwidth like streaming video or video chatting, you might experience some frustrating lag.
• VPN may log data : Again, depending on the service, your VPN company may be logging the very information you want to hide, like your IP address and web traffic. Our advice? Always read the VPN’s privacy policy, which we cover in our individual VPN reviews.
• Could cost money : Not all VPNs are free (except of course, the ones that are; check out the best free VPNs to see what we’re talking about). Still, free VPNs typically have limits on time, data, or servers, so if you want full coverage, you might have to pony up some dough. ISP will still be able to see IP: Even with a new IP address, your Internet Service Provider will be able to see it, so you’re never truly “private” when you’re online.

Overall, we’re of the faith that changing your IP address is a necessity at times, and we love that there’s more than one way to do it. We hope we answered all of your questions about changing your IP address, but if we didn’t, read on.

Being public digital security experts, we’re constantly inundated with a number of questions surrounding changing your IP address. Here are those questions, with, you guessed it, answers.

You can change your IP address in your device settings or by using the Tor browser, a VPN or a proxy server.

Changing your IP address may or may not be legal; it depends on how you do it and where you’re located. For example, using a VPN to change your IP address is legal in the U.S but illegal in China.

Your IP address may show a different city if you’re connected to a VPN or proxy server with servers in that city. That may be the closest server to you, or simply the one that allows for the lowest bandwidth usage.

Resetting your router may or may not change your IP address, depending on how long you wait before you turn it back on. We recommend waiting for about a day in order to get a new IP address.

Microsoft. (2020). How to change the IP address of a network adapter . docs.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-server/networking/change-ip-address-network-adapter

SmartProxy. (2020). How to Change Your IP Address Right Now . smartproxy.com/what-is-a-proxy/change-ip

Tor Project. (2020). Browse Privately. Explore Freely . torproject.org/

Investopedia. (2020). IP Address . investopedia.com/terms/i/ip-address.asp

Linksys. (2020). Differences between IPv4 and IPv6 . https://community.fs.com/blog/ipv4-vs-ipv6-whats-the-difference.html