Internet privacy is more important today than ever before. After all, everything you do online is tracked, including your IP address. Fortunately, you can legally change your IP address and enjoy additional privacy as you use the internet. And you don’t need to be an internet technology (IT) pro or have any prior experience to do so. We’ll walk you through how to change your IP address four different ways so that you can find the right way for you.
Here are the four ways to change your IP address in 2024:
- Manually.
- Automatically using a VPN.
- Automatically using a proxy server.
- Through your router.
What Is an IP Address?
Before we dive into how to change your IP address, let’s go over what it is. IP address stands for internet protocol address. You can think of it as a unique identifier, similar to your address. Your IP address classifies each device on the internet with a unique ID that other devices can see so they can send and receive data. It also shares your geolocation so the internet understands which geo-content is most relevant to you.
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How To Change Your IP Address Manually
If you have a new IP address you’d like to use, you may change it manually. Not only is this process relatively quick, it can give you more control over your network connections. Just keep in mind that going the manual route usually involves static IP addresses, which are easier to track and hack than other types of IPs. The steps you’ll take to manually change your IP address will depend on your operating system.
Windows 10
- Go to Start, Settings, and Network & Internet.
- Select Properties under your local area connection.
- Click Edit under IP assignment.
- Select Manual, toggle on the IPv4, and type in your new IP address.
- Click Save.
Windows 11
- Go to Start, Settings, and Network & Internet.
- Select Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
- Select Manage and then click Edit next to IP assignment.
- Select Automatic (DHCP) or Manual under Edit network IP setting.
- Enable IPv4 and type in these three boxes: IP address, Subnet mask and Gateway.
Mac
- Go to system preferences.
- Select network connection.
- Configure IPv4.
- Select manually and type in your new IP address.
iOS
- Go to settings.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Select network.
- Select IPv4 address.
- Click configure IP and type in your new IP address.
Android
- Go to settings.
- Select connections.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Choose the settings icon next to your current network.
- Go to IP settings and select Static.
- Type in your new IP address.
How To Change Your IP Address Automatically Using a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) can allow you to change your IP address automatically. It replaces your IP address with that of a VPN server. Essentially, it makes it look like you’re in the selected server’s location and as a result hides your location.
In addition, it encrypts your connection and strengthens your online security. The main downside of a VPN, however, is that it might slow down your internet connection and won’t stop cookies. When choosing a VPN, opt for a reliable and versatile VPN service. The best VPNs ensure security and reliability, while offering a high server selection and excellent encryption.
- Download and install a quality VPN service.
- Open the application.
- Toggle the switch to On.
For more information, refer to you VPN provider for details on how to change your IP address, as well as insights on where to change your IP address to.
How To Change Your IP Address Automatically Using a Proxy Server
A proxy server is essentially a gateway between you and the internet. It’s a server that separates end users from the websites they visit. It helps hackers from entering a private network and can add an additional layer of security as you browse the internet.
While proxy servers are similar to VPNs, they won’t encrypt your connection. When you connect to one, you’ll receive a fake IP address without the hassle. You can get a proxy server in hardware or software form, usually for a monthly fee.
- Download and install a quality proxy server.
- Open the application.
- Toggle the switch to On.
How To Change Your IP Address by Resetting Your Router
A router allows all your devices to communicate with one another and use the same internet connection at once. If you find that some of your devices aren’t connecting to your router, your router may be sending out the wrong IP address.
The good news is you can reset your router and trick your devices into thinking it’s brand new. This quick, easy strategy will assign your router a new IP address. But it might not work right away and you’ll likely have no internet connection while your router is unplugged.
- Find and jot down your IP address.
- Unplug your router for at least five minutes.
- Plug your router back in and check your IP address again. You should notice a different address once you reconnect.
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Reasons To Change Your IP Address
There are a number of benefits you can enjoy if you take the time to change your IP address, including:
Protect Online Privacy
When you change your IP address, you hide your geolocation. Hackers as well as websites that track your web activity won’t be able to tell where you are. Even if you only use the internet from time to time, a new IP address can give you some peace of mind.
Bypass Government Restrictions
Believe it or not, some governments use IP addresses to restrict access to specific websites. If you change your IP address, you can hide from these government sensors and give yourself the freedom to access any website you’d like.
Access Regional Content
If you travel often for work or pleasure, you might find it difficult to access regional content, such as sporting events. You’ll be able to solve this issue with a new IP address. It will give websites the impression that you’re using them from an approved region.
Troubleshoot Issues
It’s not uncommon for new routers to give devices the wrong IP address. If you reset your router, you can easily solve this issue as well as a few other IT glitches you might face. You’ll find that many IT pros recommend you reset your router and see if that does the trick before they intervene.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an easy way to protect your online privacy, you may want to change your IP address. Regardless of what type of device or operating system you have, you’re sure to find the process seamless, especially when you follow our step-by-step instructions above. Best of luck!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What will happen to my internet connection when I change my IP address?
When you change your IP address, any services or programs you’re using, such as file sharing, won’t work. It’s similar to what would happen if you disconnect your Wi-Fi temporarily. Once you go through all the steps and change your IP address successfully, you might need to log back in to the services or programs.
What are the different types of IP addresses?
There are several types of IP addresses, and each applies to different situations. These include public IP addresses (points of contact between your networks and the public internet), private IP addresses (assigned to your device via your router), dynamic IP addresses (assigned by a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server and may change) and static IP addresses (don’t change and are commonly used in businesses with servers).
Is it legal to change my IP address?
It is perfectly legal to change your IP address in the U.S. Many internet users go through this process to improve their online safety and protect their online privacy. Keep in mind that if you live in or travel to another country, such as China, this process may be illegal so it’s a good idea to do your research or consult an attorney.
Can my ISP change my IP address?
It depends on your ISP but it doesn’t hurt to ask. If you prefer for them to change your IP address, call a customer service representative or use their online chat feature to ask. As long as you can confirm your identity, they may agree to do this for free.
