How to change my IP address on any device easily

Your IP address is a unique identifier assigned to your device when you connect to the internet. It determines your location, affects the content you can access, and can expose your online activity. If you’re wondering how to change my IP address, there are several ways to do it, including using a VPN, proxy server, or adjusting your network settings. Changing your IP can help protect your privacy, bypass geo-restrictions, and enhance security. In this guide, you’ll learn about changing your IP address on Linux, Android, Mac, and iOS devices with simple and effective methods. You can also learn how to change your location on iPhone.

What is an IP address?

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique string of numbers assigned to each device connected to the internet. It acts as a digital home address, allowing data to be sent and received between devices. Think of it like a mailing address—just as the postal service needs your home address to deliver letters, the internet needs your IP address to send information to your device. Without an IP address, your device wouldn’t be able to connect to websites, apps, or online services.

How is my IP address tracked and where can I find it?

Your IP address is tracked through various methods, mainly by websites, internet service providers (ISPs), and online services that log your connection details. When you visit a website, your IP address is recorded to determine your location, track browsing behavior, and deliver region-specific content. ISPs also monitor your IP address and can link it to your online activities. To find your current IP address, you can search “What is my IP” on Google, check your device’s network settings, or visit online IP lookup tools. This will display your public IP address, which is the one visible to websites and online services.

Why should I change my IP address?

There are several reasons why you might want to change your IP address, including:

• Enhancing privacy – Changing your IP helps prevent websites, advertisers, and third parties from tracking your online activity.
• Bypassing geo-restrictions – Some content, such as streaming services or websites, is restricted to certain regions. A new IP address can help you access it.
• Avoiding bans and restrictions – If your IP is blocked on a website or service, switching to a different one can restore access.
• Improving security – Changing your IP can protect against targeted attacks, such as DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service).
• Troubleshooting network issues – Some connection problems can be resolved by switching to a new IP address, especially if your current one is flagged or experiencing issues.

3 effective methods to change your IP address automatically

If you want to change your IP address quickly and easily, there are three reliable methods that do it automatically. These methods help improve privacy, access restricted content, and troubleshoot network issues without requiring complex manual configurations. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for each approach, along with their advantages and drawbacks to help you choose the best option.

Changing your IP address using a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the most effective ways to change your IP address. It routes your internet traffic through a secure server in a different location, replacing your real IP with a new one. This allows you to browse the internet anonymously, access geo-restricted content, and enhance your security.

How to change your IP address with a VPN:

1. Choose a VPN provider – Select a reputable VPN service that offers multiple server locations.
2. Download and install the VPN app – Most VPNs provide apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
3. Sign in and connect to a server – Open the app, log in, and choose a server in the desired country or region.
4. Verify your new IP address – Visit an online IP checker to confirm that your IP has changed.

Pros:

✔ Provides strong encryption and security features
✔ Allows access to geo-restricted websites and services
✔ Easy to use, with apps available for all major devices

Cons:

✖ Requires a paid subscription for premium services
✖ Can slightly reduce internet speed due to encryption

Changing your IP address using a Proxy server

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet, masking your real IP address with one from the proxy server. Unlike a VPN, proxies don’t encrypt your traffic, but they can still help with accessing restricted content and hiding your identity.

How to change your IP address with a Proxy server:

1. Choose a proxy service – Find a reliable proxy provider offering different server locations.
2. Configure your browser or device settings – Most browsers and operating systems allow manual proxy setup in their network settings.
3. Enter the proxy server details – Input the proxy IP address and port number provided by the service.
4. Save the settings and browse – Your internet traffic will now be routed through the proxy server, using its IP address instead of yours.

Pros:

✔ Works quickly and requires minimal setup
✔ Free proxy options are available
✔ Useful for accessing region-blocked content

Cons:

✖ Lacks encryption, making it less secure than a VPN
✖ Unpaid proxies may be slow or unreliable
✖ Some websites block known proxy servers

Both VPNs and proxy servers offer an automatic way to change your IP address, with VPNs being the more secure option. If you need occasional IP changes for basic tasks, a proxy server might be enough, but for privacy and security, a VPN is the better choice.

How to change your IP address on different devices manually

While using a VPN or proxy is the easiest way to change your IP address, you can also do it manually. This method is a bit more technical, but with the right guidance, it’s straightforward. Manually changing your IP can be useful if you want more control over your network settings or need to switch IPs without using third-party services. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux devices.

Changing your IP address on Windows 10 and 11

If you’re using a dynamic IP (which most internet service providers assign), restarting your router might be enough to get a new IP. If that doesn’t work, you can manually configure your IP address.

Method 1: Restart your router (for dynamic IPs)

1. Turn off your modem/router – Unplug the power cable and wait for at least 5 minutes (sometimes up to a few hours).
2. Reconnect your router – Plug it back in and turn it on.
3. Check your IP address – Visit an IP-checking website to see if it has changed.

Method 2: Manually set a new IP address (for static IPs)

1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
2. Click Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.
3. Select Change adapter options > Right-click your network > Properties.
4. Click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and select Properties.
5. Choose Use the following IP address and enter your desired IP (from your ISP or a local network).
6. Click OK and restart your connection.

How to change your IP address on Mac OS

Mac users can also change their IP address manually through the network settings.

Method 1: Restart your router (for dynamic IPs)

1. Turn off your modem/router and leave it unplugged for a while.
2. Reconnect and restart to see if your IP address changes.

Method 2: Assign a new IP address (for local network)

1. Click on System Settings > Network.
2. Select your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
3. Click Details > TCP/IP tab.
4. Choose Manually under Configure IPv4.
5. Enter a new local IP address within your network range.
6. Click Apply to save changes.

How to change your IP address on Android devices

On Android, you can change your IP by reconnecting to a different network or using static IP settings.

Method 1: Switch to a different Wi-Fi or mobile network

1. Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data.
2. Enable Airplane Mode and wait a few seconds.
3. Turn Airplane Mode off and reconnect to your network.
4. Check if your IP has changed using an online IP checker.

Method 2: Set a static IP address (for local network)

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Press and hold your connected network, then tap Modify network.
3. Select Advanced options > IP settings.
4. Change it from DHCP to Static.
5. Enter a new local IP address and save your settings.

How to change your IP address on iOS devices

Similar to Android, iPhones and iPads allow you to change your IP by switching networks or setting a static address.

Method 1: Toggle airplane mode (for cellular network IP change)

1. Swipe down to open Control Center.
2. Tap Airplane Mode and wait for a few seconds.
3. Turn it off and reconnect to your mobile network.
4. Visit an IP-checking website to see if it changed.

Method 2: Assign a static IP on Wi-Fi

1. Open Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the (i) icon next to your network.
3. Select Configure IP > Manual.
4. Enter a new IP address, subnet mask, and router details.
5. Save the settings and reconnect.

How to change your IP address on Linux

On Linux, you can change your IP using terminal commands or network settings.

Method 1: Restart your router (for dynamic IPs)

1. Turn off your modem/router for a few minutes.
2. Reconnect and check if your IP address has changed.

Method 2: Change IP address using terminal (for static IPs)

1. Open a Terminal window.
2. Type:
   sudo ifconfig eth0 down
sudo ifconfig eth0 192.168.1.100 netmask 255.255.255.0
sudo ifconfig eth0 up
3. Replace eth0 with your network interface name and 192.168.1.100 with the desired IP.
4. Press Enter to apply changes.

Manually changing your IP address requires some technical knowledge, but it gives you greater control over your network settings. If you need a simple and automated solution, using a VPN or proxy may be a better option.

Additional methods to change your IP address

Besides the usual methods, you can also change your IP address through your ISP or network settings. Below are two additional approaches to help you get a new IP address.

How to change your IP address by contacting your ISP

If you can’t change your IP through other methods, contacting your ISP is another option. ISPs can assign you a new IP address, especially if you have a dynamic IP.

How to request an IP change:

1. Contact your ISP’s customer support via phone, chat, or email.
2. Ask for a new IP address, providing details on why you need the change (e.g., privacy or access issues).
3. Follow any instructions they give, and wait for confirmation.

Changing your IP address using network settings

You can also change your IP address manually through network settings. This is useful if you’re managing your own local network.

For Windows:

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet.
2. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet, then Change adapter options.
3. Right-click your network and go to Properties > TCP/IPv4 > Properties.
4. Choose Use the following IP address, then input the new IP.

For Mac OS:

1. Go to System Preferences > Network.
2. Select your connection, click Advanced, and go to the TCP/IP tab.
3. Choose Manually under IPv4, then enter a new IP.

These manual methods give you direct control over your IP address, but contacting your ISP or using a VPN may offer easier solutions.

Final thoughts

Changing your IP address is a useful tool for enhancing privacy, bypassing geo-restrictions, and improving security. Whether you choose to use a VPN, proxy server, or manual settings, there are various ways to achieve a new IP address depending on your needs. Remember, a VPN is the most secure and reliable method, but for those seeking simplicity, proxies or contacting your ISP may also work. Always stay mindful of your privacy and consider using additional security tools like firewalls and antivirus software for extra protection. Ready to take control of your online privacy? Explore more tips and tools today!

FAQs

Can I change my IP address myself?

Yes, you can change your IP address yourself. You can generate new IP addresses using a VPN, proxy, or router or log into your device’s settings through the steps above.

Is changing your IP address illegal?

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 about changing your IP address on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices  — or get a VPN to change your IP automatically.

How do I change my IP address correctly?

Here’s how you can change your IP address manually:

• Click the “Start” button.
• Click “Settings” > “Network & internet.”
• Click “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi,” depending on the connection your device uses.
• Under IP assignment, click “Edit.”
• Select “Manual” and toggle “IPv4” on.
• Input a new IP address, and click “Save.”

Your IP address is a unique identifier assigned to your device when you connect to the internet. It determines your location, affects the content you can access, and can expose your online activity. If you’re wondering how to change my IP address, there are several ways to do it, including using a VPN, proxy server,…