What an IP address is and why you might need it

Your computer's IP address is a unique number that identifies it on a network — either your home network or the internet. It looks like four numbers separated by dots, such as 192.168.1.5 (for your home network) or something like 203.45.67.89 (for the wider internet). You need this number when you're troubleshooting connection problems, setting up a printer or other device on your network, accessing your computer remotely, or helping a tech support person diagnose an issue.

Your computer actually has two IP addresses: a local IP address that only works within your home or office network, and a public IP address that the rest of the internet sees. Most of the time, you'll need the local one. The method to find each is different, and both take less than a minute.

Key Takeaways

  • Your local IP address (the one you usually need) is found in your network settings and looks like 192.168.x.x or 10.0.x.x.
  • On Windows, open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi or Ethernet, then look for "IPv4 address" in the connection details.
  • On Mac, open System Settings > Network, select your connection, and the IP address appears in the details pane.
  • Your public IP address (what websites see) can be found by searching "what is my IP" in any web browser.
  • If you're connected by cable, use Ethernet; if you're wireless, use Wi-Fi — the method differs slightly but the result is the same.

Finding your local IP address on Windows

On Windows 10 or 11, the fastest route is through Settings. Click the Windows Start button, then type "Settings" and open it. Go to Network & Internet, then select either Wi-Fi (if you're wireless) or Ethernet (if you're plugged in with a cable).

Once you're in that section, you'll see your current connection listed. Click on it, and a details pane will open. Scroll down until you see IPv4 address — that's your local IP address. Write it down or take a screenshot if you need it for something else.

If you prefer the command line, you can also open Command Prompt (search "cmd" in the Start menu), type ipconfig, and press Enter. Look for "IPv4 Address" in the results under your active connection.

Finding your local IP address on Mac

On Mac, open System Settings (the gear icon in your dock or Applications folder). Click Network in the left sidebar. You'll see a list of connections — select the one you're currently using (Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on how you're connected).

The IP address appears in the main pane on the right, labeled IP Address. It's displayed clearly near the top of the connection details. If you don't see it when ready, make sure you've selected the active connection (it will have a green dot next to it).

Alternatively, you can open Terminal (search "Terminal" in Spotlight), type ifconfig, and press Enter. Look for "inet" followed by your IP address under your active connection.

Finding your public IP address

Your public IP address is what websites and services on the internet see when you connect to them. To find it, open any web browser and search for "what is my IP" or "my IP address". Google and other search engines will display your public IP prominently at the top of the results.

Alternatively, you can visit websites like whatismyipaddress.com or ipinfo.io, which are designed specifically to show you this information. Both are free and require no sign-up. Your public IP address changes periodically (usually when you restart your router or after a set number of days, depending on your internet provider), so don't be surprised if it's different the next time you check.

The difference between local and public IP addresses

Your local IP address only works within your home or office network. It's assigned by your router and lets devices on your network find each other — your computer, printer, phone, and smart TV all have their own local addresses. These addresses always start with 192.168, 10.0, or 172.16, which tells you they're private.

Your public IP address is assigned by your internet service provider and is how the rest of the internet identifies your connection. When you visit a website, that website logs your public IP, not your local one. If you're setting up a printer or accessing a security camera on your home network, you need the local address. If you're troubleshooting why a website can't reach you, or you're helping someone access your computer remotely, you need the public one.

When you might need each address

You need your local IP address when you're setting up a device on your home network (like a printer, router, or smart home device), accessing your computer from another device on the same network, or troubleshooting why devices can't see each other. Tech support may also ask for it if you're having problems with your home network specifically.

You need your public IP address when you're setting up remote access to your computer from outside your home, troubleshooting internet connectivity issues with your provider, or if a service asks for your IP to whitelist your connection. Some online games and services also log your public IP for security reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my IP address keep changing?

Your public IP address changes periodically because your internet provider assigns it temporarily rather than permanently. This usually happens when you restart your router or after several days of being connected. Your local IP address can also change if your router reassigns it, though most home routers keep it stable for the same device. If you need a stable local address, you can set a static IP in your router settings.

Is it safe to share my IP address?

Sharing your public IP address carries minimal risk on its own — websites already see it every time you visit. However, don't share it with strangers or post it publicly, because someone with your IP could attempt to access your router or computer if they know other details about your setup. Your local IP address should never be shared outside your home network, as it's only useful to devices already on your network.

What if I can't find my IP address in Settings?

Make sure you've selected the connection you're actually using (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). If you're on Wi-Fi but looking at Ethernet settings, you won't see an active address. Also check that you're connected to the network — if the connection shows "Not connected" or "Disconnected", reconnect first, then check again.

Can I change my IP address?

Your public IP address is assigned by your internet provider and you can't change it directly, though restarting your router may trigger a new one. Your local IP address can be changed through your router settings or by setting a static IP on your computer, but this requires access to your router's admin panel and isn't necessary for most home users.