Frequently Asked Questions

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to every device connected to the internet. It functions like a postal address, allowing data to be routed between devices. IPv4 addresses look like 192.168.1.1, while IPv6 addresses look like 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334.

IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) is the fourth version of the Internet Protocol. It uses 32-bit addresses, allowing for approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses. Due to the growth of the internet, IPv4 addresses are becoming exhausted, which led to the development of IPv6.

IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) is the latest version of the Internet Protocol. It uses 128-bit addresses, providing approximately 340 undecillion unique addresses — enough for every device on Earth and beyond. IPv6 also includes built-in security features and simplified header format.

A dynamic IP address changes periodically and is assigned by your ISP from a pool of addresses — most home users have dynamic IPs. A static IP address stays the same permanently and is typically used for servers, VPNs, and businesses that need consistent remote access.

An ASN (Autonomous System Number) is a unique identifier assigned to an autonomous system (AS) — a large network or group of networks with a single routing policy. ISPs, large corporations, and universities typically have their own ASN. Example: AS15169 belongs to Google.

An ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a company that provides internet access to individuals and businesses. Common ISPs include Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, and BT. Your ISP assigns your public IP address and routes your internet traffic.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in another location. This hides your real IP address, protects your privacy, and can bypass geographic restrictions. Common uses include secure browsing, accessing region-locked content, and protecting sensitive data.

A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. When you use a proxy, websites see the proxy server's IP address instead of yours. Unlike VPNs, proxies typically don't encrypt your traffic and only work at the application level.

Tor (The Onion Router) is a free, open-source network that anonymizes internet traffic by routing it through multiple encrypted layers (like an onion) across volunteer-operated servers worldwide. It provides strong anonymity but can be significantly slower than regular browsing.

IP geolocation maps an IP address to a geographic location using databases that associate IP ranges with countries, regions, cities, ISPs, and coordinates. This tool uses local IP2Location LITE databases for all lookups — no external API calls are made, ensuring your privacy.

Yes, every website you visit can see your public IP address. This is necessary for the website to send data back to your browser. Your IP can reveal your approximate location, ISP, and can be used for tracking unless you use privacy tools like VPNs or Tor.

You can hide your IP address using several methods: 1) Use a VPN (most effective), 2) Use the Tor browser, 3) Use a proxy server, 4) Connect through a public Wi-Fi network (though this has security risks). A VPN is generally recommended for the best balance of privacy, security, and speed.