How to change your IP address on any device or OS
Changing your IP address can help you enhance security, access restricted content, and troubleshoot network issues.
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What is an IP address?
Your IP address (short for Internet Protocol) acts as a unique identifier for your device on the internet, revealing your general location and ISP details. While this is necessary for online connectivity, it can also expose you to tracking, surveillance, geo-restrictions, and privacy concerns. In this guide, we’ll explore how to change your IP address on any device safely and effectively.
What is metadata?
Methods to change your IP address
- Unplug your router for a few minutes
- Plug it back in to receive a new dynamic IP (if supported by your ISP)
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What does a VPN Do? VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and assign you a new IP address which belongs to the VPN server routing your traffic
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VPNs are best for privacy: VPNs prevent ISPs, websites, hackers, and other surveillance from tracking you Recommended VPNs for privacy: NymVPN, Mullvad, ProtonVPN
Switching to another Wi-Fi network (e.g., coffee shop, public Wi-Fi) changes your IP address
- Some ISPs allow users to request a new IP address (usually dynamic)
- May require restarting your modem or providing account verification
- A proxy masks your IP address when browsing websites. Learn about the difference between proxies and VPNs and why VPNs are superior privacy tools.
- Less secure than a VPN as it doesn’t encrypt traffic on its own, and usually covers traffic through particular apps like browsers rather than your whole device holistically.
Changing your IP address on different devices
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, then Edit under IP assignment
- Choose Manual > toggle IPv4 > enter a new IP
- Open System Settings > Network
- Select your connection, click Details, and go to TCP/IP
- Choose Manually and enter a new IP
- Navigate to Settings > Wi-Fi
- Tap the gear icon, select IP settings, and choose Static
- Enter a new IP address and save
- Open Settings > Wi-Fi
- Tap the i icon, select Configure IP, and choose Manual
- Enter the new IP address and save
Changing IP Address: Frequently Asked Questions
No, but a VPN may help bypass throttling by ISPs.
It may trigger security verifications for logins.
You can switch as often as your ISP or VPN allows.
About the authors
Benjamin Nemeroff
Casey Ford. PhD
Technical reviewerTable of contents
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