What Is My IP Address?

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique string of numbers and periods that identifies each device connected to the internet or a local network. It functions much like a home address does for physical mail — it tells other devices where to send information so it reaches the right destination.

Every time you visit a website, send an email, or stream a video, your device communicates with remote servers using your IP address. This address is assigned to you by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and can reveal your approximate geographic location, the name of your ISP, and other network-level information about your connection.

There are two main versions of IP addresses in use today. IPv4 addresses use a 32-bit numeric format written as four groups of numbers separated by periods (for example, 192.168.1.1). IPv6 addresses use a 128-bit hexadecimal format that supports a vastly larger number of unique addresses, designed to accommodate the growing number of internet-connected devices worldwide.

Your public IP address is different from your private (local) IP address. Your public IP is the address visible to the outside world, while your private IP is used within your home or office network. When you connect to a VPN like SwissGuard, your public IP is replaced with the VPN server's IP address, effectively hiding your real location and identity from the sites and services you interact with online.

Understanding your IP address is the first step toward taking control of your online privacy. Tools like this one help you see exactly what information your IP reveals to the websites you visit every day. If the results concern you, a VPN is the most effective way to protect your identity and encrypt your internet traffic.