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What Is IP Address Geolocation and How to Change It?

What is IP geolocation?

IP geolocation  is the mapping of an IP address to the geographic location of the internet from the connected device. By geographically mapping the IP address, it provides you with location information such as the country, state, city, zip code, latitude/longitude, ISP, area code, and other information.

What is it for?

Various systems use geolocation databases for IP addresses. The reasons for this are numerous, but it is mainly used for deducting the user’s location so that the system could give more personalized offers (products, services, etc.).

In this case, we will deduct the geolocation for the following IP address: 185.141.165.74 . The easiest way to do it is to use free online tools like  iplocation.net  (google ip geolocation tools ).

Paste the IP address in the IP Location Finder text box and press the IP Lookup button. In this case, the result you get is this:

In the picture above, we can see that the tool found the IP record on three databases: IP2Location,  ipinfo.io , and DB-IP. The text in the brackets denotes where the information was taken from and when it was last updated (e.g., IP2location (Product: DB6, etc.) means that the geolocation record for the IP was taken from DB6 database).

Wrong geolocation

Sometimes you might see that geolocation data varies from database to database. One system might deduct that your IP address is from Germany, other states that it is from France. How is that possible?

There are many reasons why this might happen, yet it is basically due to the difference in database records.

Changing the records

If you find your geolocation wrong and you would like to change it, you need to request a correction for a record. The means of doing this varies depending on the database, for example, DB-IP handles the requests via support email, where you should state the IP (with the subnet) and the location information (City, State, Country, Postal Code). Other databases like MaxMind use  data correction web forms  so that all requests had the same standard and could be handled by API.

So to change the records, you need to find the way the database handles the requests.

You might be contacted by some person, who supervises the database system, asking you to provide traceroutes (to at least one IP of the subnet range). To do that using Windows OS, press  Start , type  cmd , hit Enter then type:

and type the IP you would like to trace instead of  your_ip . For our example IP: 185.141.165.74 the result looks like this:

Take notice that the traceroute will be different if it is done from other locations that are due to the fact that the utility checks the connection from one  PoP  to the other, mapping the route. The first column denotes the number of the Hop, second, third, and fourth denotes the latency between hops (checked three times), and the last one denotes the address of the Hop. Take notice that latency between some PoPs is marked like * – that is because, for security purposes (DDoS), some PoPs are configured not to handle  ICMP  requests. Find more information about tracert  here .

So, if you are asked for a traceroute, copy the result from cmd to a text document and send it to them, in most cases, that is enough.

Still Wrong IP Geolocation?

You have requested for data correction, yet you still see the same results? Some databases refresh their records once a month, others – once in a week. Depending on the database, it may not have updated your records yet.

You can see that utilities see your IP address correctly, but some sites (system) still states that you are from the wrong location? Most probably, a system like that uses the database, which holds a false record. In this case, you would have to find out what database it is and then ask its support for correction.

Alternatively, you can talk with the Heficed team to discuss the issues you are facing, and we are ready to help. Want to try Heficed services? Get started with the IP Address Market, where you will find all RIRs and many geolocations in one place at an affordable price! You can run bare-metal and virtual servers with the IPs ordered in IP Address Market.

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How to change location and IP address with a VPN

Find out how to change your location and IP address using a virtual private network.

Although the primary use of a VPN for many is online security and anonymity, lots of people download them thanks to their ability to change the location of the IP address of your laptop, mobile, tablet and even your entire router, to somewhere entirely different.

And why would they want to do that? Maybe it's to get around the blocks that some offices and countries put on social media sites and apps like Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram. And another popular use-case is to watch overseas Netflix catalogs and stream foreign sport.

In internet slang, this process is often called ‘geo-spoofing’, but it’s very straightforward. We’ll show you the easiest way how to change location with a VPN.

The best VPN in the world right now is ExpressVPN Of the hundreds of VPNs that we have reviewed, ExpressVPN tops the lot. Its pure speed and watertight security are a great start, and then there's the sheer amount of global servers it has and adaptability to tons of devices and streaming boxes.

It also comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and if you use the following link, you can claim 3 months FREE and a year of unlimited secure cloud backup from Backblaze with an annual plan.

Why use a VPN to change IP address and location? 

The most popular reason to change your IP address is to access region-locked content. For instance, some of the best Netflix US shows aren’t available to the streaming service’s subscribers in the rest of the world, while BBC iPlayer is similarly blocked for anybody outside the UK.

And then there may be certain sporting events you want to see that simply aren't being broadcast where you live. If streaming is your main concern, you’ll want to look for the best Netflix VPN and streaming VPNs .

Masking your true IP address is also a great way to stay more anonymous and, by definition, secure when you're online. In basic terms, they prevent the online activities you partake in from being known to the prying eyes of your internet service provider and even your government. Of course, the end-to-end encrypted VPN tunnels they use don't hurt, either! You can read more about this in our guide How does a VPN work?  

How to change location on phone, laptop, and more 

Believe it or not, this is actually the easy bit. Simply scroll below and follow the easy steps to change location with a VPN - in this case, ExpressVPN : 

• Download and install ExpressVPN by clicking here  
• Log-in and you should be offered a list of VPN connections 
• Pick the country you want your computer to change location and click the appropriate button  
• That’s it – it may take a few seconds, but your chosen VPN’s servers will do the grunt work for you and give you a new IP address 

The steps above are based on a macOS computer, but you'll be able to follow a similar process on other desktop operating systems and will also find VPN apps available for Android and iOS mobile devices. The very best software will make this nice and easy for you, that's why we like providers such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN so much.

You can make things even easier for yourself by installing a Chrome VPN extension in your browser.  

Changing IP address with free VPNs 

If you’re working to a tighter budget, you may be considering one of the best free VPNs out there.

However, most “free” VPN providers are forced to limit their bandwidth, which makes it unsuitable for accessing some geo-location services like video streaming websites. The provider also has to make money somehow, so may ask you to view ads or sell your personal data to third parties.

If you’re still determined to give free VPN providers a try, click here for our roundup of the more reliable ones. 

Some providers aren’t careful about what ads they show, some of which may contain links to malware. Consider installing an adblocker if you don’t have one already.  

Location lockout 

Unfortunately some websites and online services like Netflix are using advanced detection methods to check whether you’re connecting via a VPN. If this is detected then they may block you from viewing content or force you to access only the same data you could before.

This is a particularly common problem if you use a shared IP address, as these may be used by other people trying to “geo-spoof” their location in the same way you are. Some VPN providers such as NordVPN can actually provide a dedicated IP address if you’re willing to pay a little more per month.

However, before you go ahead and hand over more money, there are some quick fixes you can try. 

For starters, see if you can simply switch servers. Many providers offer VPN servers in multiple locations. For instance, ExpressVPN has a vast network of over 3,000 servers in 90 countries, so it’s easy to check a few different ones in your country of choice. In our latest review ExpressVPN was also able to access some geo-specific services like Netflix.

If this doesn’t work, it’s possible that you may have browsing data like cookies saved on your device which reveal your true location. 

The most common way this happens is when you first visit a website. A pop-up can appear asking if you want to share your location with it. If you’ve clicked Allow then this website will always know where you really are, even if you’re using a VPN.

Some websites may also be able to detect cookies on your browser, which reveal your true location. The best way to make sure this doesn’t happen is to clear your browser cache .

Be warned though, this will clear all your browsing history including useful links and cookies. As an alternative consider using your web browser in incognito mode . Using incognito mode in itself won’t change your supposed location - you’ll still need to use a VPN. 

For other Google products, you may also need to turn off location tracking services, as websites may be able to find you this way too. 

If you’re using Chrome on a computer, simply follow these steps: 

• Navigate to a Google search page 
• Click the padlock to the left of the website address
• Select Permissions > Location Access
• Select Block for current search engine

If you’re generally worried about sharing your data with Google, there are alternative search engines available which don’t record your IP address or personal data such as DuckDuckGo . You may also want to consider using a less intrusive web browser with more security and privacy options such as Mozilla Firefox .

Some VPN providers such as NordVPN offer browser add-ons which will automatically update your location for you. For more advice, see our guide How to choose the right VPN for you .

Fixing DNS leaks 

Another way in which websites can find out your real location, even though you’re using a VPN is through DNS leak . Some VPN providers will encrypt your web traffic but won’t forward DNS requests from your devices to their servers, instead letting you use the ones your ISPs provided. This is known as DNS leak and makes it easy to detect your real location, as well as which websites you visit.

Luckily there are ways to check that your VPN provider doesn’t do this. If your VPNS provider doesn’t use its own DNS servers to handle your requests, consider switching to one that does.  

DIY VPNs 

If you’re using a secure browser but all your VPN providers' servers keep being blocked, you can take matters into your own hands and set up a VPN server of your own. You’ll need some network administrator experience to do this but free and open source software like Outline VPN is designed specifically to let you easily set up your own VPN service. 

In order to do this you’ll need to have your own server. For most VPN applications a virtual private server or VPS should be perfectly fine.  

Contact the provider 

If all else fails, you may need to contact the service provider and ask if you can use the VPN with a service. Netflix, for instance, supports using VPNs only to view its own licensed content. It also doesn’t support using VPNs on its Basic ad-supported plan.

If the billing address for your payment card is also set to a particular country, your provider may only show you content on that basis too. If you’ve moved to a new country, you can open an account there. Alternatively you may be able to buy a prepaid gift card for the country whose content you want to access. 

Other VPN uses

Some countries censor popular websites entirely. China’s outright ban on Facebook and Twitter being one of the better known examples -– which is why we’ve tested the best VPNs for China . 

Or aside from the streaming and app accessing, there's also the security concern -  you may not want search engines logging your online activity. The data gleaned from such tracking helps advertisers target you with what they consider to be relevant content across multiple platforms. The list of VPN uses seems to go on and on. 

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Nate Drake is a tech journalist specializing in cybersecurity and retro tech. He broke out from his cubicle at Apple 6 years ago and now spends his days sipping Earl Grey tea & writing elegant copy.

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How to change your IP address to troubleshoot your internet connection or protect your privacy

• You can change your local IP address from the network settings controls menu on a PC, Mac, or phone.
• Your public IP address can be changed by resetting your router or connecting to a VPN.
• You might need to change your IP address for technical or security reasons.

Your computer, like every device that connects to the internet, has an IP (Internet Protocol) address. It's a series of numbers interspersed with decimal points (for example, "198.169.0.101"), and acts like a home address that identifies where other devices can find your computer. 

It's rare that you need to know your computer's IP address, but should you need it, it's easy to find (for details, see our articles on how to find the IP address for Windows or the IP address on a Mac) .

Here's everything to know about changing both your local and public IP addresses.

How to change your public IP address

No matter what kind of computer you have — Windows or Mac — it's pretty easy to change your public IP address.

Your public IP address is usually set by your internet service provider (ISP), and you can't choose it yourself. However, you can "coax" it to change in any of several different ways:

• Change your network or location : Your public IP address will change based on where and how you connect to the internet. If you have a phone with LTE, for example, turning off Wi-Fi so it uses that LTE signal will compel it to use a different IP address. You can also connect to a different Wi-Fi network.
• Reboot your internet modem : When you reboot the modem (turn it off, wait two to three minutes, then turn it back on) it'll refresh all the IP addresses on the network. 
• Connect with a VPN : A VPN (Virtual Private Network) hides your public IP address, and connects you to a server in a different location with a different IP address. When you use a VPN, you don't get to choose the IP address directly, but you can usually choose what geographic region you want to appear to come from, which will determine what IP addresses the VPN software will use to identify you.  

If all else fails, contact your ISP and ask them to change your IP address. They might not be able to do it, but there's no harm in asking.

How to change your local IP address in Windows

1. Click the Start button and then click "Settings."

2. Click "Network & Internet."

3. In the navigation pane on the left, click "Wi-Fi" and then click the name of your Wi-Fi network. If you're connected with an Ethernet cable, select "Ethernet."

4. On the details page for your Wi-Fi network, scroll down to the IP settings section and click "Edit." With Ethernet, click "Properties."

5. Finally, in the Edit IP settings dialog box, click "Automatic (DHCP)" and choose "Manual." Then turn on IPv4 by swiping the button to the right and enter the details of the new IP address. Click "Save."

How to change your local IP address on a Mac

1. In the Apple menu, click "System Preferences."

2. Click "Network."

3. In the pane on the left, select the network you're connected to, and then click "Advanced" at the bottom right of the window. 

4. Click the "TCP/IP" tab at the top. 

5. In the Configure using IPv4 section, click "Using DHCP" and then choose "Manually."

6. Finally, enter the details of the new IP address. Click "OK."

How to change the local IP address on a mobile device

Like any internet-connected device, your phone has its own IP address. If you have a compelling reason to, you can change your IP address for your phone as well.

For both iPhone and Android, you can customize the IP address from the Wi-Fi settings page. For step-by-step details on how to do this, see our articles " How to change the IP address on your iPhone " and " How to change the IP address on an Android phone ."

Related articles

How-To Geek

How to change your ip address.

Need to fix networking issues? Changing your IP address should help.

Quick Links

Why would you want to change your ip address, static vs. dynamic ips: should you get a static address instead, key takeaways.

The simplest way to change your IP address is to power off your router, wait at least 10 seconds, then power it back on. If that doesn't fix your problem, you may want to set a static IP address instead.

Changing your IP address is a simple fix for a number of networking issues. However, there's more than one way to cook that particular egg. So let's go over your options for getting a new IP address, and why you'd choose one over the other.

Your  IP address is a set of numbers that works both as a way to locate you in the real world as well as serves as your digital address. When you connect to the internet, for example, your internet service provider or ISP will assign you an IP that will reveal to the sites you visit where you're connecting from---it's why sites will usually change language when you're accessing them from abroad.

Changing your network IP will make you appear like you're somewhere else, great for circumventing censorship blocks or even changing your Netflix library to that of another country. However, that's not possible without using outside help, so to speak. You'll usually have to use a third-party program to alter your IP that way, and it only works while that program is active.

There are a few ways to temporarily change your IP like this, we discuss them at length in our article on how to hide your IP address . In most cases, your best bet is to use a virtual private network (VPN) to fake your IP and thus make it appear that you're somewhere else. It's pretty cool, and easy to do.

However, it's not just your internet connection that broadcasts an IP address: each device you own also has its own, unique IP. This is so each device can properly communicate with both the network and each other.

If there's a problem with your network's IP or that of a specific device, they may not connect properly or have some other issues. A VPN won't fix these problems, at least not for the long-term; the only way to get rid of these issues is to permanently change your IP address. Luckily, this isn't that hard to do.

The first way to fix any issues is to change your network's IP. This is a lot easier than you may think thanks to something called the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol . DHCP is a protocol---a set of rules that governs how machines "talk" to each other---which can change the IP address associated on the fly, hence "dynamic."

To do so, all you really need to do is turn your router off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it on again . (Simply resetting usually doesn't work, but it depends very much on the router.) Once the router is fully on and working again, you should have a new IP address.

You can, of course, check to make sure. To do so, before you switch off the router, find your IP address either by asking your favorite search engine what it is or using a tool like IPleak.net . Write down the IP, switch your router on and off, and then check again.

However, the above fix is a short-term one that mainly only works if you have a simple issue, like if your router suddenly starts acting up. If you have permanent networking issues with your devices, you may have to throw out DHCP altogether and instead set up a static IP address, one that doesn't change.

Related: How to Set Static IP Addresses on Your Eero Router

Setting a static IP address will hopefully get rid of any networking issues, or at least narrow down the list of possible causes for why your devices aren't talking to each other. That said, there are a few different ways to tackle this issue.

First off, you could reach out to your ISP and simply ask them to change your IP address. You'll probably have to explain what the issue is and walk through a few steps with them---this really depends on your ISP---but if the tech is worth their salt, they'll take care of it for you.

Manually Set a Static IP Address

However, that may not be necessary: there are plenty of ways you can track down and fix any issues yourself, starting with changing your router's IP to static. We have a full tutorial on how to set a static IP on your router , and this should hopefully change any issues you have on the network level.

That said, it could be your laptop or desktop causing the issues. In that case, you could try setting a static IP on your Windows computer ---or, if you prefer, using the Windows command prompt . Members of Team Penguin can check out this tutorial on how to set a static IP in Ubuntu . It's also worth noting that  iPhones have a built-in function for changing IPs and setting static ones too .

Whichever route you end up taking, with a few minutes of work your networking issues should be a thing of the past.

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How to Change Your IP Address

If you need to spoof your IP address, there are a few ways to do it

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• The Wireless Connection
• Routers & Firewalls
• Network Hubs
• Installing & Upgrading
• Wi-Fi & Wireless

What to Know

• Windows: Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings and follow the instructions below.
• Mac: System Preferences > Network . Select a network > Advanced . Go to the TCP/IP tab and select Manually . Enter info.
• iOS: Open Settings > Wi-Fi , tap the circled i next to the network, select Configure IP > Manual . Set up the new IP.

This article explains how to change your IP address manually by switching from the router's assigned DHCP address to a static one on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It also covers how to change your router's public IP address, which appears as the public IP address of every device on the network unless you use a VPN.

You can also get a new IP by releasing and renewing your IP .

Change a Windows Computer's IP Address

If your Windows computer has the IP address set up as a static one, change the IP address as follows:

Open Control Panel and select Network and Sharing Center . If you don't see it, first select Network and Internet .

Choose Change adapter settings .

Double-click the connection that you want to change the IP address on. For example, to change the wireless adapter's IP address, double-click the one that mentions Wi-Fi.

Select Properties .

Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) .

Either alter the IP address or select Obtain an IP address automatically to have the router control the IP address.

If you leave the setting to obtain an IP address automatically, the router automatically assigns an IP address to the computer. However, when you enter the IP address information, the computer's IP address stays static.

Leave Obtain DNS server address automatically selected. Otherwise, your DNS server settings remain empty, which may cause other connection issues.

Change a Mac Computer's IP Address

Here's how to change the IP address on a Mac.

Open the System Preferences app on the Mac and select Network .

Select your Wi-Fi network in the left panel and click Advanced .

Select the TCP/IP tab.

Select Manually in the drop-down menu next to Configure IPv6 (or iPv4) and enter the information for the new IP.

Change a Phone's IP Address on iPhone

You can also change the IP address on a mobile device such as the Apple iPhone as follows:

Open the  Settings  app and select Wi-Fi .

Tap the small ( i ) next to the network and select Configure IP .

Choose Manual . Enter the network details manually, such as your IP address and DNS information.

The choice of a specific local IP address does not affect the network performance in any meaningful way.

Change a Phone's IP Address on Android

It's also possible to change an Android device's IP to a static IP on your network.

Android phones can vary depending on the manufacturer of the device. Some manufacturers alter the Android OS to meet their specifications, which means the steps you need to follow may differ slightly from those listed here. These steps should apply to most Android devices.

Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi .

Tap the network that you want to change the IP address for.

Select Forget .

Tap the network from the list of available Wi-Fi networks.

Select Advanced options .

Choose Static .

Scroll down and fill out the IP address fields.

Enter the Wi-Fi password at the top of the screen.

Select Connect .

Change a Router's IP Address

To change the router's IP address, log in to the router as an administrator. From the control panel, change the IP address to whatever you like. However, this IP address is usually changed when there's a problem with it. The default IP address should suffice for most situations.

How to Change Your Public IP Address

An external public IP address is the address used to communicate with networks outside of your own, such as those on the internet. Use a VPN to mask or hide your real IP address. You can also use a web proxy to mask your public IP.

Why Change Your IP Address?

Some ISPs assign static IP addresses to their subscribers. Home users are commonly configured with a dynamic IP address . Either way, you may be able to contact your ISP to request a new static IP or a dynamic IP change. You can't change your external internet IP address on your own.

Some people change their public external IP address to avoid online bans or bypass country location restrictions that some sites impose on video content.

Changing the IP address of a client computer, phone, or router is useful when:

• An invalid address is accidentally configured, such as a static IP address in the wrong numeric range.
• A malfunctioning router provides bad addresses, such as an address used by another computer on the network.
• Installing a new router and reconfiguring a home network to use its default IP address range.

No. There are many reasons someone may want to change their IP address. However, if you're on a work setup or have a home network running, messing with IP addresses can sometimes cause headaches, so make sure you know what you're doing.

It's possible but not probable. If you're power-cycling your router , the address likely won't change. Still, if you reset your router to factory defaults, it's more likely the device will assign new addresses.

Yes, you can. However, you need third-party software. A VPN , or virtual private network, gives you unique IP addresses in places anywhere on earth.

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How to change your IP address

Want to change your IP address? It's easy — here's how to do it

How to change your IP address is a task you should know how to do, especially if you’re concerned about privacy and security. Thankfully, there are several easy ways to make that change.

But why change your IP address in the first place? One reason is that when browsing the internet at home, all of your traffic is tied back to your IP address. This makes it possible for your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to monitor you. Using the IP address your ISP provides also makes it easy for said provider to build a profile of your activity and enable targeted advertising.

Changing your IP address to one that’s based in another country also gives you access to that country’s streaming content, while changing your IP address via a gaming proxy server can also help you improve your performance.

With that said, this is how to change your IP address whether you're using a computer that runs Windows 11 or macOS .

How to change your IP address the easy way

The simplest way to change your IP address is to unplug your modem. Keep in mind that this may not work on the first try. It’s even possible that you’ll need to leave your router unplugged overnight.

1. Check your IP address . Our guide on how to find your IP address details the steps.

2. Unplug your router for five minutes . This may take longer, depending on your ISP.

3. Plug your router back in and check to see if your IP has changed . If not, repeat the steps .

How to change your IP address with a VPN

Changing your IP address with one of the  best VPN  services is one of the easiest ways to stop your ISP monitoring your internet activity, and changing to an address that’s based in another country can also give you access to that country’s streaming content. Thankfully, almost all providers make it a relatively straightforward task.

If you’re signed up to one of the many quality consumer VPN providers on the market, it couldn’t be simpler to change your IP address using a VPN . If you’re not, we recommend ExpressVPN — Tom's Guide readers can currently claim three months free on a 12-month plan .

1. Open up your VPN application . If this is the first time you’ve used it, accept any requirements it asks for on your device.

2. Select which server you want to connect to . If you’re just looking for privacy, choose one in your home country . If you want to access content from another country, pick one in your desired location .

3. Press the connect button — it should be easy to find.

4. Wait a few seconds for the VPN to connect. You'll now be using a new IP address.

How to automatically update your IP address: Windows

1. Press Win + R on your keyboard to open the Run box.

2. Type "cmd" in the search bar then hit Enter to open the command prompt box.

3. Type "ipconfig /release" . Be sure to include the space between "ipconfig" and "/release". Hit Enter . A wall of text will flood the screen.

4. Type "ipconfig /renew" and hit Enter . Close the command prompt window afterward.

How to automatically update your IP address: macOS

1. Click the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the screen. Click System Preferences .

2. Select Network .

3. Click Advanced .

4. Click TCP/IP on the following screen then click Renew DHCP Lease .

How to manually change your IP address: Windows

If you have an IP address you want to use, this is how you can manually set it on Windows.

1. Press the Start icon in the taskbar. Alternatively, click on the search icon .

2. Type "settings" .

3. Click Network & Internet in the following box.

4. Select your network (either Wi-Fi or Ethernet).

5. Find IP assignment and click Edit .

6. Click on the drop-down menu and select Manual .

7. Toggle IPv4 on .

8. On the following screen, set your IP address , along with Subnet mask, Gateway and Preferred DNS. You can also select Alternate DNS . Click save .

How to manually change your IP address: macOS

If you have an IP address you want to use, this is how you can manually set it on macOS.

1. Click the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the desktop and select System Preferences . On the System Preferences window that appears, click Network .

2. Click your current network and select Advanced .

3. Click the TCP/IP tab . Choose Manually from Configure IPv4.

4. Type a new IP Address . Click OK and then Apply .

Now you know how to change IP address, why not check out our other computing guides, including how to open HEIC files on Windows , how to use task scheduler on Windows , how to turn off automatic updates on Windows 10 , how to split your screen on Mac and how to recover data from a hard drive .

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Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Hard Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

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How to change your IP Address?

Your IP Address is 66.249.64.20 .

Depending on the type of Internet service you subscribe to, you may be getting a static or dynamic IP address from your ISP. A static IP address is a permanent (non-changing) IP address assigned to you. Most residential gateways and smartphones get a dynamic IP address from their ISP whenever they connect to the Internet. In home networks, a gateway (or a router) is getting an IP address from an ISP and shares this public IP address amongst all devices connected within the home network. This article describes how to change an IP address of a dynamically assigned IP address (those assigned via the DHCP ).

Change your IP Country with a VPN

You may want to change your public IP address for a variety of reasons. If your IP address is banned by certain game servers or your download allowance from a P2P network has expired, obtaining a different IP address from your current ISP will solve your problem (see instructions below). However, if you wish to bypass regional censorship and wish to obtain an IP address from a different country, changing an IP address from your ISP will not help. For example, if you want to watch BBC, Netflix, Spotify, or Hulu from a region where those services are blocked, you will need a VPN service to obtain an IP address of a country where the service is allowed. With VPN, you'll also surf the Internet anonymously with added security.

Here are a few VPN providers we recommend:

• Express VPN

For a full comparison and company reviews, please visit VPN Comparison page. You may also refer VPN Buyer's Guide .

Ok, I got it so how do I change IP address?

If you renew your IP address from your current ISP, your ISP may or may not assign you a new IP address. Depending on how you connect to the Internet, you may have to reset a device. If you're connected via a router, you'll have to change IP address of your router. If you're connected directly to the Internet via a layer-2 gateway, you'll have to change your computer's IP address. Most home network is connected via a router, so chances are that you need to change IP address of your router. In this article, we will describe how to change IP address of your router and also show you how to change IP address of your computer. There are a number of ways to change IP address, so I'll describe easiest method first and then describe a bit more complicated methods.

In order to verify that you've changed an IP address of your device, you'll have to visit Find My IP page of our website.

How to change IP address of a router?

A router is a layer 3 networking device that connects multiple computers to the Internet. In home network with dynamically assigned IP address, a router is assigned a public IP address and all the computers connected to the router are assigned private IP addresses. When computers connected to the router visits the Internet, the world views your computer with a public IP address of your router. So, if you want the world to see you with a different IP address, you'll have to change IP address of the router. Here are a few ways to change IP address of your router.

• Turn off your router for a minute and turn it back on. The common nature of DHCP is to "remember" the device and assign you the same IP address you had before, so simply turning off your router and turning it back on will not likely change IP address. However, if you try multiple times you may get lucky and will obtain a new IP address from your ISP. If multiple tries don't get you a new IP address, try leaving the router turned off overnight and restarting in the morning.
• Reconnect your router to your ISP via the administrative Interface. Most routers allow you to disconnect from the upstream ISP and reconnect via a point-and-click from the Administrative Console. Each router vendor provides a different UI to achieve this, but once you login to the Administrative Console of the router you should be able to locate the reconnect button. The screenshot below is the method provided by the Asus RT-N66W model.

How to change IP address of a computer?

If you have only 1 computer at home and connect your computer directly to the Internet via an ISP-provided gateway, the following method will allow you to change the public IP address of your computer. However, if you're connecting to the Internet via a router, changing your computer's IP address will have no impact on how the world is viewing your IP address. So, follow this step only if you're connecting your computer to the Internet directly.

• Shut down your computer for a minute and turn it back on. Again, the common nature of DHCP is to assign the device the same IP address each time it connects to the network, it's unlikely that you'll receive a different address the first time your restart your computer. If you restart a few times, you may get lucky and get a new IP address from your router.
• Renew your IP address. You may manually release your IP address and obtain a new IP address with Windows ipconfig utility. Please follow the following steps.
• On Windows 7 and below, click Start -> Run, and type cmd as shown below. On Windows 8, type the WIN key and X key to bring the Power User Menu -> Choose Run.

• On the Command Prompt screen, run "ipconfig /release" and "ipconfig /renew" commands as shown below. You'll have to start Elevated Command Prompt (Run as System Administrator) to execute the ipconfig command.
• Verify that you have a new IP address by either typing ipconfig command, or by visiting Find My IP page. In our example above, the IP address has been changed from 192.168.1.101 to 192.168.1.102. Again, the nature of DHCP is to assign the device the same IP address as before so you may have run this step multiple times to change your IP address.

How to change IP address of your smartphone?

If your smartphone is on a WiFi network, changing your IP address will only change the private IP address of the smartphone and the public IP address will remain the same. The world only sees your public IP address, so the website that you visited will view your smartphone as having the same IP address even though you may have changed its private address. To change the public IP address of your smartphone, you may want to try the following.

• Restart your smartphone - Turn off your WiFi, and restart your smartphone. Your smartphone will be obtaining a public IP address from your phone service provider via DHCP, restarting your device will likely get you a new IP address. If you don't get a new IP address, you may want to try this a few times until you get a new number.
• Borrow your neighbor's WiFi IP address - Ask your neighbor if you can use his/her network, and if allowed connect to their WiFi network.

Use someone else's network

As with Hide IP Address , you can always use someone else's network and obtain an IP address from that network. Try using free Wi-Fi services from a local coffee shop, hotel, library or any other public places. An IP address does not travel with your computer, so using someone else's network may be a viable solution.

If you have any questions about changing IP address, please post your question on Hide and Change IP Address Forum .

Disclaimer: We receive compensation when a purchase is made from the referred link. Our recommendation is based on our research and positive feedback we received from the users who've used the services.

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Understand & manage your location when you search on Google

When you use Google, like with Maps, Search or Google Assistant, your current location is used to give you more helpful results. For example, if you search for coffee shops, you’re likely searching for coffee shops near you. Your locat ion helps to show you nearby results, even if you didn't include a location in your search.

Your location comes from a variety of sources, which are used together to estimate where you are. You can update your location settings as you use Google services to get the search results you want and control your privacy in a way that's right for you.

If you want to learn more about how locatio n works before changing your settings, below you’ll find info on how Google determines location when you search .

Update your location to get better local results

If you’re searching for something nearby and not finding local search results, try these fixes:

• Add your current location to your search, like coffee shops in Chelsea .
• Check that your device sends location to Google when you search. Follow the steps below to manage your device location settings.

You can help Google give you better results from your home or work when you set:

• Your home address
• Your work address

Manage your device location settings

Most computers can send location information to websites, even if they don’t have GPS. You can control whether location is sent from your device to a website, like google.com, by changing the location permissions in your browser.

Important: You might need to check your computer’s location settings or system preferences.

Manage location permissions for google.com

• On your computer, open your browser and go to google.com .

• Select Allow or Block for google.com.

Important: It can sometimes take a long time for your browser to get your current device location. To give you search results quickly, google.com might use your device's location from the last time you used Google. This location is stored in a cookie set to expire after 6 hours. Learn more about managing cookies .

How Google determines your location when you search

When you use Google, like with Maps, Search or Google Assistant, your current location is estimated from several sources, depending on their availability. These sources are used together to determine where you are:

• Your device location
• Your Google account addresses like from your home or your work
• Your Google Home app for your speaker, Smart Display, or Smart Clock
• Your Google products with your previous activity
• Your internet connection's IP address

Important: Most of these sources of location can be controlled using either your device's permissions, your account preferences, or other settings. Learn more below about how your choices affect your privacy and location .

Sources for determining location when you search

When you use Google, you can find out how your location was estimated at the bottom of the results page.

Many devices, like phones or computers, can work out their precise location. This kind of precise location is useful in apps, like Google Maps to give directions or help you get useful nearby search results. For example, some searches that rely more on precisely where you are, like coffee shop , bus stop or atm , will usually give more helpful results with location permissions turned on.

Following the steps above, you can manage your device-based location settings to choose if location is available when you search. Depending on your device, you can usually turn location on or off for individual apps & websites and for your device itself.

If your device location was used to help get your search results, the location information at the bottom of the search results page will say From your device .

If you set your home or work addresses, they may be used to estimate your location when it’s likely that you’re at one of these places.

You can edit home and work addresses in your Google account.

If the location of your home or work was used to help get your search results, the location information at the bottom of the search results page will say Based on your places (Home) or (Work) .

If you’re signed in to your Google Account and have Web & App Activity turned on, your activity on Google sites, apps, and services may be saved in your Google Account. Some items from your activity may include the general area you were in at the time. A precise location can be stored in your activity if your activity involves a precise location.

In some cases, areas that you have searched for in the past may be used to estimate a relevant location for your search. For example, if you search for coffee shops in Chelsea and then nail salon , Google might show nail salons in Chelsea.

You can view and control your Web & App Activity, at myactivity.google.com . Learn how to view & control activity on your account .

If you’re not signed in to your Google Account, Google may store some location information for previous searches from the device you’re using to help provide more relevant results and recommendations. If you turn off  Search customization  , Google won't use previous searches to estimate your location. Learn more about how to search and browse privately .

If your previous activity was used to help get your search results, the location information at the bottom of the search results page will say "Based on your past activity."

An IP address, also called Internet address, is assigned to your device by your Internet Service Provider. It's a requirement to use the internet. IP addresses are used to make the connection between your device and the websites and services you use.

IP addresses are roughly based on geography. This means that any website you use, including google.com, may get some information about your general area.

If your IP address was used to estimate your current general area for your search, the location information at the bottom of the search results page will say From your internet address .

Important : The Internet doesn't work without IP addresses. When you use sites, apps, or services like Google, they can usually detect some information about your location.

Location controls & your privacy

When you search on Google, Google will always estimate the general area that you’re searching from. Estimating the general area that you’re in means that Google can give you relevant results, and keep your account safe by detecting unusual activity, such as signing in from a new city.

A general area is larger than 1 sq mi, and has at least 1000 users so that the general area of your search does not identify you, helping to protect your privacy. This means that a general area is typically much larger than 1 sq mi outside of cities. The estimated general area comes from the location sources described in this article.

If you grant location permissions to google.com or Google apps on your device, then when you search, your precise location will be used by Google to show you the best search results. Precise location means exactly where you are, such as a particular address.

If you set your home or work addresses, and Google estimates that you’re at home or work, then the exact address will be used for your search.

Need more help?

Try these next steps:.

Change TCP/IP settings

TCP/IP defines how your PC communicates with other PCs.

To make it easier to manage TCP/IP settings, we recommend using automated Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). DHCP automatically assigns Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to the computers on your network if your network supports it. If you use DHCP, then you don't have to change your TCP/IP settings if you move your PC to another location, and DHCP doesn't require you to manually configure TCP/IP settings, such as Domain Name System (DNS) and Windows Internet Name Service (WINS).

To enable DHCP or change other TCP/IP settings

Select  Start , then type settings . Select  Settings  >  Network & internet .

Do one of the following:

For a Wi-Fi network, select  Wi-Fi  >  Manage known networks . Choose the network for which you want to change the settings.

For an Ethernet network, select  Ethernet , then select the Ethernet network you’re connected to.

Next to  IP assignment , select  Edit .

Under  Edit network IP settings or Edit IP settings , select  Automatic (DHCP)  or  Manual .

To specify IPv4 settings manually

Under  Edit network IP settings or Edit IP settings , choose  Manual , then turn on  IPv4 .

To specify an IP address, in the  IP address, Subnet mask , and  Gateway  boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify a DNS server address, in the  Preferred DNS  and  Alternate DNS  boxes, type the addresses of the primary and secondary DNS servers.

To specify if you want to use an encrypted (DNS over HTTPS) or unencrypted connection to the DNS server or servers you specify, for DNS over HTTPS , choose the setting you want:

Off : All DNS queries will be sent to the DNS server unencrypted in plaintext over HTTP.

On (automatic template) : DNS queries will be encrypted and sent to the DNS server over HTTPS. DNS queries will use the default settings for the automatic template or try to discover them automatically.

On (manual template) : DNS queries will be encrypted and sent to the DNS server over HTTPS. They’ll use the settings you enter in the DNS over HTTPS template box.

If you use DNS over HTTPS (automatic or manual template), turn Fallback to plaintext on or off:

When it’s turned on, a DNS query will be sent unencrypted if it can’t be sent over HTTPS.

When it’s turned off, a DNS query won’t be sent if it can’t be sent over HTTPS.

To specify IPv6 settings manually

Under  Edit network IP settings or Edit IP settings , choose  Manual , then turn on  IPv6 .

To specify an IP address, in the  IP address , Subnet prefix length , and  Gateway  boxes, type the IP address settings.

When you select  Automatic (DHCP) , the IP address settings and DNS server address setting are set automatically by your router or other access point (recommended).

When you select  Manual , you can manually set your IP address settings and DNS server address.

When you’re done, select  Save .

Note:  To install IPv4, run Command Prompt as an administrator, type netsh interface ipv4 install , and then press Enter .

Select Start   , then select Settings   > Network & Internet   .

For a Wi-Fi network, select Wi-Fi   > Manage known networks . Choose the network you want to change the settings for, then select Properties.

For an Ethernet network, select Ethernet , then select the Ethernet network you’re connected to.

Under IP assignment , select Edit .

Under Edit IP settings , select Automatic (DHCP) or Manual .

Under Edit IP settings , choose Manual , then turn on IPv4 .

To specify an IP address, in the IP address, Subnet prefix length , and Gateway boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify a DNS server address, in the Preferred DNS and Alternate DNS boxes, type the addresses of the primary and secondary DNS servers.

Under Edit IP settings , choose Manual , then turn on IPv6 .

When you select Automatic (DHCP) , the IP address settings and DNS server address setting are set automatically by your router or other access point (recommended).

When you select Manual , you can manually set your IP address settings and DNS server address.

When you’re done, select Save .

In Windows 8.1, select the Start button, start typing View network connections , and then select View network connections in the list.

In Windows 7, open Network Connections by selecting the Start button, and then selecting Control Panel . In the search box, type adapter , and then, under Network and Sharing Center , select View network connections .

Right-click the connection that you want to change, and then select Properties . If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Select the Networking tab. Under This connection uses the following items , select either Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) , and then select Properties .

To specify IPv4 IP address settings, do one of the following:

To get IP settings automatically using DHCP, select Obtain an IP address automatically , and then select OK .

To specify an IP address, select Use the following IP address , and then, in the IP address, Subnet mask , and Default gateway boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify IPv6 IP address settings, do one of the following:

To get IP settings automatically using DHCP, select Obtain an IPv6 address automatically , and then select OK .

To specify an IP address, select Use the following IPv6 address , and then, in the IPv6 address, Subnet prefix length , and Default gateway boxes, type the IP address settings.

To specify DNS server address settings, do one of the following:

To get a DNS server address automatically using DHCP, select Obtain DNS server address automatically , and then select OK .

To specify a DNS server address, select Use the following DNS server addresses , and then, in the Preferred DNS server and Alternate DNS server boxes, type the addresses of the primary and secondary DNS servers.

To change advanced DNS, WINS, and IP settings, select Advanced .

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[3 Ways] How to Change My Location on MacBook & MacOS?

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Aug 28, 2023 (Updated: Aug 28, 2023) • Filed to: Change GPS Location

5K views, 5 min read

How to change my location on MacBook? If you are seeking to simulate random virtual locations on your MacBook or MacOS to bypass location-based security systems, you are the right place. Our guide will walk you through three practical ways to change your Mac's location.

We will illustrate the 3 ways of seamlessly changing your MacBook's and Mac’s location safely without leaking your IP to online trackers, as well as provide the steps to change mobile devices’ location on Mac .

Part 1: Why Change Your Location on MacBook?

Part 2: How to Change the Location on Your MacBook/MacOS.

Method 1: Change IP Address on Mac/MacBook

Method 2: Change your Network Location

Method 3: change your macbook's location with vpn, bonus tip: how to fake ios location on mac, how to change the region on mac.

FAQs for Mac Location

Why Change Your Location on MacBook?

Changing your location will give you access to geo-restricted content from websites or streaming platforms. You can access anything restricted in your locale .

Enhanced security and privacy will make it increasingly difficult for websites or individuals to track your location.

Gamers can also switch to different game servers or content released earlier or available in certain parts only.

You can check various search engine results to check how your website or business is shown across different regions.

These are some of the benefits of changing the location on your Mac. Other benefits vary from one user to another depending on the reason for changing the Mac's GPS location. Here are some methods you can use to change the location on your Mac:

How to Change the Location on Your MacBook/MacOS

Method 1: change ip address on mac.

You must manually configure your IP address to change it without a VPN. Just follow these simple steps;

Step 1: Disconnect from the internet before making any changes to avoid interference.

Step 2: Open Network preferences by clicking the Apple logo in the bottom-left corner. Select 'System Preferences ' and click on 'Network' . Select Network Connection, i.e., choose your network connection, for example, WiFi or ethernet.

Step 3: Change your IP address from the TCP/IP tab to change IPv4 settings. Change the IPv4 configuration to manual from the drop-down menu and insert the IP address, subnet mask, DNS server addresses, and gateway address of your choice.

Step 4: Apply the changes and click on OK to exit the advanced settings.

This is an alternative to changing your IP address manually. Here are the steps

Step 1: Click on the WiFi icon and select "Open Network Preferences." Select your connection type on the left side. Choose a new location from the "Location" drop-down menu.

Step 2: To create a new location on Mac or MacBook, select 'Edit Locations' , add a name, and click "Done." Configure your Network's IP address from the "Advanced" tab. Click on "Apply" to save your settings.

This will let you easily switch between network profiles and change your location when you switch between them.

Virtual Private Networks, VPNs , are one of the best ways to change your Mac's location easily. VPNs also offer extra security and an extra layer of protection regarding online tracking and other privacy concerns. Follow these steps to use a VPN.

Step 1: Choose a good VPN service and sign up for it. For example, download iRocketVPN .

Step 2: Install and launch the VPN client. Choose a specific server location you want to connect to the internet.

Step 3: Connect to the VPN server by clicking on the 'Start' or "Connect" button depending on the VPN client.

Step 4: Verify your location change, and your internet traffic will immediately appear from the selected server's location.

You can now enjoy apps, websites, and other content from the new location.

There's a new vibrant location spoofing software in town! It's none other than Wootechy iMoveGo . iMoveGo allows you to spoof your GPS location on Android and iOS (iPhone, iPad and iPod.) devices in real time and is easy to use, safe, and utterly reliable.

Some Features of iMoveGo- Change location without VPN

75.000.000+

One-click to accurately change the location to any spot in the world.

Support to customize GPS routes with unlimited spots on the map to simulate GPS movement.

Works on all the location-based Apps such as dating Apps, gaming Apps, Find My , Life 360, etc...

It supports up to 10 devices simultaneously on both Android and iOS devices.

You can customize the speed of HPS movement to simulate walking or driving.

It lets you change your location safely without the risk of jailbreaking .

Joystick is available for AR gamers.

Free Download

Secure Download

How to change the location on iOS/Android using iMoveGo

Step 1: Download and Launch iMoveGo on your computer, then select 'Get Started.'

Step 2: Connect your iOS/Android device to your computer using a USB cable for the first connection. Afterwards WiFi connection is available. your device and the PC are connected to the same WiFi network for subsequent connections. Keep the device's screen on when using WiFi.

Unlock your iOS device and click on "Trust". Enter your passcode to continue.

Step 3: Select Teleport Mode and choose your desired location.

Step 4: Click on "Move" after selecting the desired location. Your current location will be changed instantly, affecting all apps and sites.

To change the region on your MacBook, follow these quick and easy steps.

Step 1: Click on the Apple Menu, and open "System Preferences". Click on Language and Region, then click "Language and Region. "

Step 2: If necessary, unlock the locked settings. Click on the padlock icon in the bottom-left corner, enter your Mac's password, and click "unlock."

Step 3: Change the region format to set the date, time and number formats per the chosen region.

Step 4: Relaunch apps for the effects to take effect.

FAQs on How to Change the Region on Mac Devices

1 how do i turn on location services on a macbook.

To turn on location on a MacBook, open the Apple menu and go to "System Preferences". Choose "System Preferences" and click "Security and Privacy" . Open the "Privacy" tab and choose "Location Services". Just check on the box next to "Enable Location Services".

2 Why is my MacBook Location Wrong?

This depends on the network you are connected to. Depending on the network or ISP, sometimes, you may have the wrong location information.

3 How to Change Location on a Mac Browser?

Just open the Apple Menu and Open "System Preferences". Next, click on Network and open the drop-down menu to change the location. Click on Add and type in the name of your new location settings profile. Click on "Done".

And there you have it. This article has been a comprehensive guide on changing your location on Mac and iOS devices . There are many benefits to switching your Mac's location, such as security and restricted content access. The steps are simple.

And if you want to change location on your Android or iOS devices such as iPhone, iPad or iPod, you can free download the iMoveGo . Start your fake location with only 1 click.

Free Location Changer

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How to Change Your IP Address

Last Updated: October 27, 2022 Tested

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 20 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. The wikiHow Tech Team also followed the article's instructions and verified that they work. This article has been viewed 244,573 times. Learn more...

There are many reasons why a person would want to change his or her IP address. This tutorial will show you how to change the IP address of a wired or wireless computer, not the IP address of an internet connection. (To do this, you need to contact your service provider.) Read on to find out how to change your IP address on both a Windows and Mac computer.

Changing Your IP Address on Windows

• Press the Windows key and R to get to the Run dialog.
• Then press Command and Enter .
• Finally, type in "ipconfig /release" and press Enter .

• 7 Understand that a dialog box may pop up. A dialog box saying "Since this connection is currently active, some settings will not take effect until the next time you dial it" may pop up. This is normal. Click "ok."Image:Change Your IP Address Step 7.jpg

Changing Your IP Address on Mac OS

• Connection time

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

Community Q&A

• This is a helpful website to see your IP address and to see if it actually worked: http://whatismyipaddress.com/ Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

• Sometimes, if they're really lucky (or you're really unlucky and got a bad IP address) they might even pinpoint your district! Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1
• For Windows 7 only. Other OS users such as Mac and Linux try another website. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1
• Sadly, however many times you change your IP address, websites can still pinpoint your country and (if lucky) your city. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 4
• It might not work every time. This is why you need to check using the website shown at Tips. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 4

You Might Also Like

• http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/25949-42-change-address-windows
• http://osxdaily.com/2010/01/26/how-to-set-a-manual-ip-address-in-mac-os-x/

About This Article

1. Disable your internet connection. 2. Open Control Panel. 3. Open Network and Sharing Center . 4. Right-click the connection and select Properties . 5. Open TCP/IP IPv4 properties. 6. Specify 111.111.111.111 as the IP. 7. Press the Tab key and then click OK . 8. Re-open TCP/IP IPv4 properties. 9. Select "Obtain an IP address automatically." 10. Click OK . Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Change Your IP Address — a Step-by-Step Guide

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

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How to change your IP address

There are four main ways to change your IP address. Depending on whether you want to boost online privacy or fix your router, the right option will help you get the most out of your device and new IP address.

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Here are the four ways to change your IP address:

How to change your IP address automatically with a VPN

You can change your IP address easily with a VPN (virtual private network) , which will strengthen your security and help you avoid content blocks by connecting through servers based in specific countries, like US VPN servers .

Here’s how to change your IP address with a VPN:

Download and install a trusted VPN like Avast SecureLine VPN.

Open the application.

Toggle the switch to ON . You’ll connect to the best remote server in seconds.

It’s really that simple to set up a VPN . VPNs hide your location by making it appear like you’re from the selected server’s location. Plus, with a VPN, all your data is encrypted . There are many VPN options out there, but avoid completely free ones — they can contain ads and malware.

If you’re unsure if a VPN is right for you, here are some pros and cons:

Pros of a VPN

Evade hackers

Stream from wherever

Avoid content restrictions and censorship

Dodge website tracking

Encrypt your connection

Cons of a VPN

Might slow down connection speed

No standard to gauge quality of service

Some businesses block VPN connections

Won’t stop cookies

If you’re already using a VPN but your connection is choppy, check if your VPN is working properly. And make sure to review the best server countries to connect to through a VPN .

Use a proxy server

A proxy server is similar to a VPN. Rather than connecting directly to a website, proxy servers, VPNs, and even the Tor browser function as intermediaries between you and the internet. But unlike a VPN and Tor, a proxy server will not encrypt your connection.

When you connect to a proxy, it will assign you a fake IP address — effectively changing your true IP address, without any of the extra hassle.

Reset your router

Are your devices not connecting to your router? Sometimes routers give out the wrong IP address — resetting your router may offer a quick fix.

Here’s how to change your IP address on your router:

Find your IP address and note it down. Our IP checker can help you with that.

Unplug your router for at least 5 minutes. It depends on how long your ISP usually takes to reset your IP address.

Plug your router back in and check your IP address again — it should be different after reconnecting.

Resetting your router basically tricks it into thinking your device is new, resulting in your router assigning it a fresh IP address. Also, along with changing your router's DNS settings , resetting your router can help prevent router hacking on your network.

Pros of resetting your router

A new IP address for your device

It’s free, easy, and pretty quick

Cons of resetting your router

Limited internet connection (or none) while it’s unplugged

Might not work immediately

Change your IP address manually

If you already have a new IP address that you want to use, you can manually change it. Rather than a more common dynamic IP , if you get an IP address that you can enter manually it’s most likely a static IP address . Depending on your device, there are a few ways to enter this type of IP address.

Here’s how to manually change your IP address on different devices:

How to change your IP address on Windows 11

Click Start > Settings > Network & Internet .

Click Ethernet or Wi-Fi . Select Manage and then click Edit next to IP assignment .

Under Edit network IP settings , select Automatic (DHCP) or Manual .

If you choose to manually configure your IP address, enable IPv4 and then enter the IP address settings in the IP address , Subnet mask , and Gateway boxes .

Click Save to activate your new settings.

How to change your IP address on Windows 10

Under your local area connection, click Properties .

Under IP assignment, click Edit .

Choose Manual , toggle on IPv4 , and enter the IP address . Then click Save.

How to change your IP address on Mac

Go to System Preferences and click Network .

In the left column, click your Network . Then click Advanced .

Select the TCP/ IP tab. Under Configure IPv4 , select Manually .

Enter your new IP address and click OK.

How to change your IP address on Android

In Android Settings , tap Connections , then Wi-Fi .

Tap Settings (the gear icon) next to your current network .

Tap IP settings and choose Static . Then add your new IP address and tap Save .

How to change your IP address on iOS

In the Settings of your iPhone or iPad, tap Wi-Fi , and choose your Network .

In the IPv4 section, tap Configure IP .

Choose Manual , and enter your new IP address.

Pros of changing your IP address manually

Relatively quick to change

Helpful for geolocation restrictions

More control over network connections

Cons of changing your IP address manually

Manually-defined IPs are usually static IP addresses, which can be tracked and hacked more easily

Manual user setup

Update your IP address automatically

Automatically updating your IP address is like hitting the refresh button. Use this method to automatically refresh your IP address, giving you a new IP to help you evade snoops, hackers, and other cybercriminals — without needing a VPN.

Here’s how to change your IP address on Windows, Android, Mac, and iOS automatically:

Update your IP address automatically on Windows

Press the Win + R keys at the same time.

In the Run dialog, type cmd . Click OK .

Type ipconfig /release (including spaces) and press Enter .

Type ipconfig /renew (including spaces) and press Enter . Close the Command Prompt.

Update your IP address automatically on Mac

Go to System Preferences , click Network .

Click the TCP/ IP tab. Then click Renew DHCP lease .

Update your IP address automatically on Android

In Android Settings , tap Connections , and select Wi-Fi .

Click Forget .

Reconnect to your Network and you should have a new IP address.

Update your IP address automatically on iOS

In iOS Settings , tap Wi-Fi , then choose your Network .

In the IPv4 address section, tap Configure IP , then select Automatic .

Pros of changing your IP address automatically

Usually updates to a dynamic IP address, which is more secure

Doesn’t require a VPN

Cons of changing your IP address automatically

Requires manual refresh

Won’t change your geolocation like a VPN does

What is an IP address?

An IP address is a string of numbers that identifies any device on a network. Computers use IP addresses to communicate with one another over the internet and other networks. IP addresses contain location information that help devices, routers, and websites identify themselves and send and receive information.

Why change your IP address?

Changing your IP address can help you evade hackers, snoops, and other forms of surveillance. Because you’re hiding who you are and where you’re located (essentially your online identity), you’ll have many privacy and security advantages. And there are other benefits too.

Here’s why you should change your IP address (jump down below to learn about the different types of IP addresses ):

Protect your online privacy: Changing your IP address will hide your geolocation, masking you from hackers , your ISP, and websites that use web tracking. Your IP address can also be used to spy on your private internet traffic — changing it will protect your online activity.

Avoid website bans: Some governments use IP addresses to restrict access to certain websites. Changing your IP address can help you hide from government censors, unblock restricted websites , and access a free and open internet.

Access regional content: Due to geo-blocking , you may have trouble streaming a game from your favorite sports team when abroad, or get blocked trying to watch a show available only in certain countries. By changing your IP address, you can get around content blocks by making websites think you’re coming from an approved region.

Troubleshoot internet issues: New routers often give the wrong IP address to devices. Manually changing your IP address can solve this problem. It can also help gamers experiencing laggy gameplay.

Remember, it’s totally legal to change your IP address. As long as you’re not doing anything criminal, you have nothing to worry about. People routinely change or hide their IP addresses for many reasons, and you can try it for yourself today with Avast SecureLine VPN .

Types of IP addresses

There are a few different types of IP addresses — all with their own unique functions. Although they’re all useful, different situations call for different IP addresses. Knowing the differences between them can help you make the right cybersecurity choices for your network.

Here are the different types of IP addresses:

Public IP address

A public IP address is assigned to your network router by your internet service provider (ISP). A public IP functions as the point of contact between your network and the public internet. Websites identify your network and connect to it through your public IP address.

A public IP address can be traced back to your ISP — they use it to monitor your location and activities. Websites also use your public IP address for web tracking . The simple Google query “What is my IP address?” will show you your device’s current IP address, but don’t be surprised if you see an IPv6 and an IPv4 address listed — IPv6 addresses are more common now.

Check out our guide to hiding your IP address to help protect your privacy.

Private IP address

A private IP address is assigned to your device by your network router. Each device on your network gets a unique private IP address — letting them all communicate over your network without connecting directly to the public internet. A private IP address is like a set of house keys, keeping intruders out of your device.

Learn more about the differences between public and private IP addresses .

Dynamic IP address

A dynamic IP address is designed for temporary use. Because there are a limited number of IP addresses available, a dynamic address is a way to recycle IP addresses. After a certain period of time, your ISP will take back the dynamic address and assign another one to your network from a pool of options.

Dynamic addresses are the most common type of IP address — they’re frequently used for consumer equipment. Although they change on their own, it’s helpful to know how to change your dynamic IP address for added protection.

Static IP address

A static IP address is fixed and doesn’t change. If your ISP assigned you a static IP, you’ll probably have it until your device dies or there’s a change in your network architecture. Generally, a static IP address is best for a business or an organization with servers.

Read more about the differences between static and dynamic IP addresses .

Whatever your IP address is, get proper privacy online

Changing your IP address seems like a secret spy technique — but it’s easy and completely legal. But simply changing your IP address is not enough to ensure robust privacy and security. For true online protection, use a VPN — like Avast SecureLine VPN .

Avast SecureLine VPN offers full encryption so you can hide your online activity from your ISP, your employer, hackers, and anyone else trying to uncover your online activity. Plus, you can safely use public Wi-Fi and access your favorite content anywhere in the world. You don’t need to be a spy to get world-class online privacy.

Change Your IP Address Automatically

Install Avast SecureLine VPN for iPhone or iPad to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

Download Avast SecureLine VPN for PC to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

Download Avast SecureLine VPN for Mac to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

Install Avast SecureLine VPN for Android to change your IP address, encrypt your data, and secure your internet connection.

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How to change your IP address (6 ways, 5 are free) in 2023

In today’s interconnected world, understanding how to change your IP address can be valuable. Whether you want to protect your online privacy, bypass geographic restrictions, or troubleshoot network issues, modifying your IP address gives you greater control over your internet experience.

However, many people find the process of changing their IP address intimidating or confusing. It’s natural to have questions like “What is an IP address?”, “Why would I want to change it?”, and most importantly, “How can I change it without breaking anything?”.

With our years of experience in the field, we have gathered the necessary knowledge and expertise to demystify the concept of IP addresses and provide you with clear, concise instructions on how to change them.

By the end of this article, you will have a solid understanding of IP addresses, why you might want to change them, and the step-by-step processes to successfully modify your IP address.

What are the best VPNs to change your IP address?

• NordVPN : The best VPN to change your IP address . Fast servers in 59 countries. Apps for all popular devices. Many advanced features. No-logging policy. Works with Netflix US, iPlayer, and many more.
• Surfshark : Best budget VPN to change your IP. Allows an unlimited number of connections. Great for families. Apps for all popular devices. Built-in adblocking and malware filtering. 30-day money-back guarantee.
• ExpressVPN : A superb all-rounder. Fast speeds thanks to its Lightway protocol. Servers in 94 countries. Works with around two-dozen Netflix regions.
• CyberGhost : Best way to change your IP for beginners. Over 7000 fast servers in 89+ countries. Fast Wireguard connections. Apps for all devices. Easy to use apps with fewer advanced settings.
• IPVanish : A fast US VPN with a proprietary network. Lots of advanced security features. No logs policy. Works with Netflix US. Apps for all platforms.
• PrivateVPN : Perfect for torrenting. Kill-switch and obfuscation features. Robust AES encryption. Great speeds. Servers in 63+ countries.
• AtlasVPN : Excellent option for streaming. Works with iPlayer, Hulu, Netflix, and more. Servers in 30+ countries. Includes malware filtering.

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NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page . You can use the VPN rated #1 for changing your IP address without limits or restrictions for a month—great if you want to bypass censorship or geo-restrictions.

There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here .

Why would I need to change my IP address?

Many online services are geo-restricted, which means they are not available outside of their country of origin. The only way to access those services from abroad is to connect to a VPN server in that location. This gives you a valid IP address and causes the website or online service to become available again.

If you travel abroad on vacation, services from back home, such as internet banking or streaming services, will be geo-restricted. As a result, you will need to use a VPN to get an IP address in your home county.

Finally, a VPN can help you get around government, ISP, or local network restrictions. By connecting to a VPN, you can get an IP address in a country where locally censored content is still available. Thanks to the privacy provided by the VPN, you can access those usually censored services without being tracked.

Best VPNs for changing your IP address – Our hands-on review

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for changing your IP address .

How to change your public IP address

Here are a few ways to change your public IP address(es):

1. Connect to a VPN to change your IP address

Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server in a location of your choosing. Websites, online services, and other devices on the web will only see the VPN server’s IP address and not your real IP address.

VPNs are useful for torrenting, unblocking region-locked content like that from Netflix and BBC iPlayer, and bypassing censorship at schools, in offices, and in countries like China.

Most VPNs can easily hide your IPv4 address, but many VPNs can leak your IP address through various security vulnerabilities. Furthermore, not all VPNs hide your IPv6 address. Choose a VPN that either disables IPv6 or can prevent IPv6 leaks by default.

If you’re not sure how to set up a VPN just follow the simple steps below.

Here’s how to change your IP address with a VPN:

• Sign up for a suitable VPN provider ( we recommend NordVPN ).
• Download the appropriate VPN app for your device.
• Open the VPN app and select a server, within your own country is fine although if you want to access a specific service make sure to choose a server in a country where it’s unblocked.
• That’s it! You should now have a different IP address.

2. Use a proxy to change your IP address

Proxies work similarly to VPNs but with far less versatility and security. Your internet connection goes through a middleman server so that websites and other online resources see the proxy server’s IP address and not your own. Unlike VPNs, proxies often lack encryption, only affect certain apps, and can leak your IP address through other means.

A few different types of proxies can be used to change your IP address:

• HTTP/S proxies – Usually either browser extensions or special websites that work like a browser within your browser. They only change the IP address on data sent to and from your browser, but do not affect other apps or even DNS traffic. If encryption is included, these are sometimes called SSL proxies.
• SOCKS proxies – General purpose proxy servers that can be configured for specific apps including most web browsers. SOCKS5 , the latest version, includes support for encryption.
• SSH proxies – SSH proxies forward internet traffic from apps like your web browser through a Secure Shell ( SSH ) connection to a server, so your IP address is changed to that of the server. Although encryption is included, SSH is not a particularly fast protocol, and many websites and apps might not function properly when connected.

3. Use Tor to change your IP address for free

Tor , short for T he O nion R outer, is a volunteer-run anonymity network. The easiest way to get started with Tor is to download and install the Tor Browser, a barebones web browser that routes all web traffic through the Tor network. Tor encrypts your connection several times and then sends data through multiple nodes—servers operated by volunteer Tor supporters. Each node strips away one layer of encryption, and the sequence of nodes used changes every time you access a different website. This makes it nearly impossible to trace Tor traffic back to the source.

Websites will see the IP address of the last node in the chain, called the Exit Node.

Tor is free, but has its drawbacks. It’s relatively slow and only really suited for basic web browsing. Tor’s anonymity means it is often associated with illicit activity and the dark web, so even though it’s not illegal, using it might draw unwanted attention from your ISP and possibly even law enforcement. Those entities can’t see what you do while connected to Tor, but they can see that you are connected to Tor nodes.

4. Change IP addresses by unplugging your modem

You might be able to get a new IP address by unplugging your internet modem, waiting a few minutes, and then plugging it back in again. When this happens, you release your existing IP address so that your ISP can recycle it. When you reconnect, your ISP assigns you a new IP address.

This method isn’t guaranteed to work because your ISP might just give you the same IP address again. The longer you leave your modem unplugged, however, the higher the chance your IP address changes. If unplugging for a few minutes doesn’t get the job done, consider leaving it unplugged overnight.

Your ISP must use dynamic IP addresses in order for this to work. Most do.

5. Ask your ISP to change your IP address

Another option is to ask your ISP for a new IP address. Every ISP has different policies about how they handle such requests, so responses may vary. At minimum, you’ll need your account information and current IP address on hand.

Most ISPs use dynamic IP address systems, meaning IP addresses occasionally change and get recycled as devices connect and disconnect from the internet. With that in mind, note that your new IP address might not stay the same forever.

In some cases, you can request a static IP address from your ISP, though this might require paying an extra fee and/or going through an application process. Once provided with a static IP address , you can enter it into your device’s network settings. Static IP addresses never change unless you manually change them.

6. Change networks to get a different IP address

This might seem obvious, but you can get a different IP address by disconnecting from whatever network you’re currently connected to and connecting to a different one. You can switch to a different wifi network, for example, or switch from wifi to a mobile data connection if you’re on a smartphone.

Remember that public and open wifi hotspots are often prime hunting grounds for hackers. Try to stick with a wifi network that requires a password and is encrypted with WPA2.

How to change your private IP address

If you’re connected to a wifi router, then you probably share a public IP address with all the other devices connected to the same network. Each device, however, has its own private, or local IP address.

Changing your local IP address won’t really affect how your device communicates with other devices and servers over the internet, but there might be instances in which you need a different private IP address. These include troubleshooting a malfunctioning router or configuring how local devices, such as printers and IoT devices , function on your home network.

Renew your local IP address

If you’re connected to wifi or some other type of local network, you can change your private IP address from the router admin panel or from the device itself. I’ll show you how to do it on Windows and MacOS.

Here’s how to renew your IP address on Windows:

• Search for the Command Prompt and right click it to Run as administrator
• Enter ipconfig /release
• Enter ipconfig /renew

You should now see a new local IP address.

Here’s how to renew your IP address on Mac:

• Click the Apple menu and open System Preferences
• Select Network
• Highlight the network that you’re connected to in the left pane
• Click Advanced…
• Select the TCP/IP tab
• Click Renew DHCP Lease

You Mac should now be assigned a new local IP address.

The process for changing local IP addresses on the router varies depending on your router manufacturer and firmware. You can usually access your router’s admin dashboard by opening a web browser and entering 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 in the address bar.

How do I change my IP address on my mobile device?

Changing your IP address is easy on a mobile phone or tablet device. All you need is a VPN. In this guide, we have recommended the best VPNs for changing your IP address. Our recommendations have servers located globally, to let you get an IP address wherever you need it. To change your IP address on a mobile device, follow the steps below:

• Sign up for the VPN by following the link in this guide ( we recommend NordVPN )
• Install the VPN app for Android or iOS onto your device. You can find it in your regular app store.
• Launch the VPN app and login using your credentials.
• Choose a VPN server from the list and click connect .
• Your IP address will change as soon as the VPN connection is established.

Your ISP always knows your IP address

No matter what methods you use to change or hide an IP address, public IP addresses are always known by the internet service provider. This is inevitable because in order to connect to the internet at all, your ISP must assign you an IP address, and it must know what that IP address is in order to transmit communication and data from the internet to your device.

So even if you used one of the above methods to mask your IP address from websites, services, and other devices on the internet, your ISP is an exception that can see behind the mask.

Even if your ISP can identify you by your IP address, however, you can hide your online activity through encryption. A VPN or Tor will encrypt all data before it ever leaves your device, so even though your ISP can see that you are communicating, it cannot see the contents of those communications.

If you need an easy way to change your IP address to that of a different ISP, try switching between wifi and your smartphone’s mobile data connection. Chances are, your phone carrier and home internet use different ISPs.

How to Change IP address: FAQs

Why does changing my ip address catch captcha requests.

Changing your IP address may result in you catching CAPTCHA requests. The reason for this is because the IP address in question is likely shared with many other users. From the perspective of an online service such as Google , it sees an unusually high number of requests from the same IP address. It then attempts to verify you’re human (as opposed to a bot!) by presenting you with CAPTCHAs.

Will a free VPN change my IP address?

Technically yes, you can change your IP address with a free VPN. There are, however, a few things about these services that make them less than ideal. For instance, free providers usually have very low monthly bandwidth limits and more users than their networks can support. This means that you may not be able to use the VPN as much as you like, and you’ll have to put up with slow speeds when you do get connected.

One of the main functions of a VPN is to keep you safe online. Unfortunately, free providers tend to forget this, with plenty falsely claiming to follow no-logs policies or overhyping the effectiveness of their security features. Why take a chance when your privacy is at stake? We’d recommend choosing a reputable no-logs provider instead of just using whatever is free.

Is it illegal to change my IP address?

No, it’s not illegal to change your IP address. Indeed, you can legally use a VPN in almost any country in the world without having to worry about breaking any laws. However, some online activities are still illegal regardless of whether you’ve used a VPN to change your IP. This includes torrenting copyrighted material or, in some countries, accessing betting websites .

Will a VPN ever expose my real IP address?

The short answer is no. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, shielding your real IP address from anyone trying to track you online. The data passing through this tunnel is highly secured with strong encryption algorithms, making it nearly impossible for someone to determine which server or network you are connected to or even know who you are. However, there are a few situations when your real IP address can still be exposed:

• If a malicious actor takes control of the VPN server and gains access to its logs.
• If the VPN service provider stores information that includes IP addresses (although many reputable VPNs do not store any logs at all).
• If a website or service you connect to uses an IP address checker to detect your true identity.

In all these scenarios, it is important to remember that a VPN does provide additional security and privacy by masking your real location and the IP address from websites and services you visit. However, for the utmost security and anonymity, it is recommended that you also use other privacy tools such as browser extensions, secure browsers, and encrypted messaging apps in addition to a VPN. With this multi-layered approach to online security, you can rest assured knowing that your real identity will remain hidden no matter what situation arises.

Do I need a dedicated IP address?

You can use a shared IP address, but they tend to come with more risk. A dedicated or static IP address is recommended but there are only a handful of VPNs with dedicated IP addresses. Having a unique IP address can help to protect you from specific threats, such as a Brute Force attack , but it’s worth noting that it isn’t foolproof. You will also need to ensure you follow good online security practices, including strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and not accessing suspicious websites.

Can I get a new IP address from my ISP?

It’s possible to get a new IP address with some ISPs. However, it really depends on the ISP in question. If you find that your ISP don’t accept your request, you could try some of the other options as listed in this post (such as unplugging your router). Of course, the best way to change your IP address while enjoying additional security and privacy-related benefits is to use a VPN.

Can I choose which location my new IP address is in?

A VPN allows you to choose the location of the server to which you connect. The best VPNs offer servers in dozens of countries around the world. Once you connect to one of these servers, you’ll be assigned an IP address to match that location. For example, if you connect to a server in Australia, you’ll be given an Australian IP address . It’s that simple! So yes, you can choose the location your new IP address is in.

What should I do if my IP address isn't changing with my VPN?

When you connect to a VPN server, your IP address should change to be in the location you selected. A VPN is designed to encrypt your data and route it to the remote service location, and as long as it is working correctly, your IP address should always update to the corresponding location.

Unfortunately, some VPNs are broken. They do not properly conceal your home IP address from the websites you visit, and/or they fail to conceal your DNS requests from your ISP. These problems are called “leaks” and VPNs that suffer from leaks are completely failing to:

• Provide you with online privacy
• Conceal your IP address from the websites you visit

If you want to know whether your VPN is changing your IP address, we recommend that you use an online IP address-checking tool . The IP address and DNS request results should show as the location of the VPN server (not your real location).

If for any reason you see a local IP anywhere on the IP leak test’s website, then it is likely that your VPN is failing to properly hide your home IP address. That means that the VPN is either no good (you need a new one), or you need to update your VPN software to make sure it is up to date and working correctly.

Remember that it is important to use a reliable VPN like the ones recommended on this page, and to periodically check for IP leaks using an online IP address-checking tool to ensure your VPN is working correctly on your device.

Will resetting my router change my IP address?

When you restart your router your ISP assigns you a new dynamic IP address. However, if your IP address is static, rebooting your router will retain that IP address.

2 Comments Leave a comment

I used Express VPN, but my subscription just ended and I’m thinking of switching to Nord, because it’s cheaper ATM. By the way, you state that there’s a 2 year deal for Nord with 66% off. When I opened the link you provided it redirected me to a 3 year deal with 75% off. Don’t get me wrong, that’s great, but please fix your links, because they are misleading.

I read lots of your articles.I find them very educational.Please tell me am I correct to sense that you are somewhat bias towards “ExpressVpn”? Thereis one line I disagree as it is not my experience with the 2 VPN providers I have tried out.(Express & Nord)

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PRIVACY ALERT: Websites you visit can find out who you are

The following information is available to any site you visit:

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage.

Using a VPN will hide these details and protect your privacy.

We recommend using NordVPN - #1 of 75 VPNs in our tests. It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available at a discounted rate.

How to Change IP Address to Another Country

Hi there. In this article I will cover how to change your IP address.  Since you did search to get to this page, you probably have a good idea why you want to do so. Anyway, I will list a few of the reasons/benefits of doing so. If you want to read up on what an IP address is to start with “again you probably know”, visit our IP tool page . Your IP address is your unique identifier on the Internet. Think of it as a digital fingerprint. This means that ISPs, hackers and other parties can trace you back to your devices. In order to hide your real IP by changing it to another one . This IP cloaking procedure is normally done by connecting to a VPN provider. Once done, your IP is spoofed and your real identity is cloaked.

There are multiple reasons why you might want to change your IP address :

• Change your geolocation, that is your IP address does define your online geographical location. Changing it has the following benefits :
• Get better deals in online stores, as there might be deals that differ country to country, or from city to city.
• Bypass sport event blackouts . MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL to name a few
• It allows you to access online content that might be blocked . Think, change your Netflix library, access free channels such as BBC or accessing paid channels that provide more value for money than your cable provider.
• Bypass censorship and/or bans “think forum bans, game bans”
• Protect your home network and your devices from hackers
• Hide your identity if you are torrenting or downloading torrents “I do not recommend torrenting”
• Prevent your ISP and other parties from snooping your traffic.

The most popular option to get a different IP is a VPN.  It allows for geolocation changes and for add protection by encrypting your traffic. If you know what a VPN is, our site has a special deal with the ExpressVPN. If you want to know more about VPNs please read on :

Get ExpressVPN

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

How to change IP to another country

A VPN, the easiest way to change your IP address?

A VPN , virtual private network, is a secure method of sending your internet traffic through another server over the Internet. It creates a digital tunnel in which all your traffic passes through and gets encrypted in. This happens upon connecting to a VPN server. Your traffic gets rerouted through that server, and the endpoint of your traffic is the IP of the server you are connected to. This has two benefits

• You change your IP location/address to that of the server. If you are using a reputable VPN you have hundreds of locations to choose from.
• You add a protection layer to your traffic, since the traffic between your device and the VPN server is encrypted . This mitigates the risks mentioned above.

Doing so is quite easy.  Follow these steps to get the IP address of any country you want:

• Sign up with a VPN provider (preferably  ExpressVPN ).
• Download and install the VPN app on the device you’re using.
• Launch the application.
• Connect to a server in the country you wish to have its IP address.
• Check your new IP Here .
• If all is well, you will now appear to be using the web with the IP address of another country.

Unlike proxies which are mentioned below, VPN can be enabled on ALL of your devices , either through download an app or enabling VPN on your router.

That is it, you have changed your IP location/address and encrypted your traffic, it is quite and easy process with many benefits. We do evaluate tens of VPN providers regularly and post our findings. See our review process here . The table below shows our top picks based on a keen review .

• 30-Day Money-back Guarantee
• Unlimited Bandwidth
• Apps For All Your Devices
• 24/7 Live Support

Any other methods to change your IP ?

There are other ways out there to change your country location, such public proxy lists. But that is asking for trouble, as you dont know who runs those proxy lists and if that operator is intercepting and reading your private information.

• Proxy sites are normally overloaded and traffic is quite slow
• You can only use the proxy site on a browser and not across all your devices
• A proxy site does cost a lot of money to run, you have to question yourself, how does the site cover it’s costs “Think selling your data ?”

One more   option is to use the Smart DNS Service of the VPN provider . The main differences are :

• Your traffic is not encrypted.
• It is easy to setup , for some devices that do not support VPN such as your Smart TV this is your only option.
• You can not access all the Internet as if you appear from one country. See the next point.
• Smart DNS Traffic does NOT reroute all your traffic, it only reroutes small portions. This is beneficial if you only want to change your IP location to access a streaming channel that is blocked in the country you currently reside it. I.e. imagine you are on vacation in Spain and you want to watch BBC Iplayer.

I did mention the obvious, if you have more ideas please let me know.There are many benefits to changing your IP . As said you can use a   ExpressVPN   encrypt and send all your traffic through the VPN tunnel, this adds security and privacy. If you simply want to access a media site such as BBC, Netflix or Hulu go for the Smart DNS Proxy Service of the same VPN provider, only the parts related to the media channel are re-routed. For me proxy site are a big No-No Let me know if you have any questions.

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About the author.

Tania Becker

Tania's work at Whatismyip.network revolves around covering the latest cybersecurity news. She has also written several guides on how to bypass regional restrictions.

I want change Kenya to Tanzania

0pen may ip

Hi Tanya, in your tests what VPN performed the best?

Hi Zohair. ExpressVPN was head and shoulders above the rest.

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• Resource Center

How to change your IP address

Nov 22, 2022 — 3 min read

Learn how to change your IP address and why you’d want to.

When you access the internet, it involves a series of private and public connections between networks and devices.

And in a world where there are more than FOUR BILLION internet users, that’s a lot of connections.

How do the wires keep from getting crossed, so to speak? The secret to an organized global network is the IP address.

Changing yours can help you do everything from troubleshooting your Wi-Fi to letting you stream your favorite shows while you’re on holiday.

Reasons to change your IP address

There may be some instances where you’ll want to change your IP address. The reasons for this include:

• Access content online which is otherwise restricted in your physical location (for example, accessing Netflix’s U.S. library while on a trip abroad)
• You can’t connect to Wi-Fi and you don’t know why
• Prevent tracking and leave no digital footprint
• Avoid throttling from your internet service provider (ISP)
• Encrypt data for increased security and data protection
• Bypass firewalls
• Fix an incorrectly configured IP address
• Use a router which is providing unusable IP addresses
• Two devices on your network share the same IP address

How to change your IP address automatically

These are some simple ways to change your IP address automatically:

Switch networks. The simplest way to change the IP address of your device is to switch to a different network. For example, if you’re browsing on your home Wi-Fi connection on your smartphone, you can turn the Wi-Fi setting off and use mobile data. This will change the IP address because a different one is assigned for each network connection.

Reset your modem/router. When you reset your modem/router, this will also reset the IP address. Simply unplug the modem/router for at least 30 seconds, plug it back in, and connect as you normally would.

Connect via Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN will keep your public IP address private and signal to the network that you’re connecting via a different location, thus changing your IP address. This happens through an encrypted tunnel, and your ISP won’t even be able to see your activity. Check out options like TunnelBear , ExpressVPN and NordVPN .

Use a proxy server. Change the proxy settings in your web browser settings so that it automatically configures. The Web Proxy (HTTP) setting is good for basic web browsing, though you might need more specific settings depending on your needs.

How to change your IP address manually

Resetting your IP address manually generally involves entering a chosen IP address into the settings on your device. Here are a few different ways you can navigate to your network IP settings on different devices:

Windows 10:

• Make sure you’re working from an administrator account and click start
• Navigate to the control panel
• Click network connection
• Scroll down to find IP settings and click edit
• Select manual
• Type in your new IP address
• Navigate to system preferences
• Click configure IPv4
• Select manually
• Go to settings
• Select Wi-Fi
• Select network
• Select IPv4 address
• Click configure IP

Benefits of changing your IP address

Security: Changing your IP address can secure your online privacy by protecting you from website tracking and hackers. 

Troubleshooting: Sometimes routers assign devices the wrong IP address, so changing it can help you solve this problem. 

Access content while abroad: If you want to access certain content from a country while abroad, changing your IP address can help you navigate regional content blocks. 

There are lots of reasons why you’d want to change your IP address. Before you do, understand the type of IP address you’re changing and the easiest way to do it.

And if you’re looking to change your IP address to fix a connectivity issue, learn how to properly set up your internet and fix a broken connection .

Written by:

Contributing Writer

Editor, Broadband Content

Friday, August 25, 2023

Robin Layton — 4 min read

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Camryn Smith — 5 min read

Camryn Smith — 4 min read

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New (August 14, 2023): View all authorizations, withdraw online

View all your active POAs and TIAs on the CAF and withdraw in real-time. To get started, link your CAF number in your account profile.

You can request power of attorney (POA) or tax information authorization (TIA) online with Tax Pro Account.

How it works

Send a POA or TIA request to an individual’s  IRS online account .

• Submit request in 15 minutes or less
• Taxpayer electronically signs
• Real-time processing

View all your active POAs and TIAs and withdraw in real-time when you link your CAF number.

Sign in to Tax Pro Account

Need to use forms? Submit authorizations with Forms 2848 and 8821 .

Who can use this tool

To use Tax Pro Account, you need to have:

• A Centralized Authorization File (CAF) number in good standing, assigned to you as an individual
• A CAF address in the 50 United States or the District of Columbia

For POA requests, you also must have:

• Authority to practice before the IRS as an attorney, certified public accountant, enrolled agent, enrolled actuary or enrolled retirement plan agent
• License, if you are an attorney or certified public accountant, to practice in the 50 United States or the District of Columbia

Before you start

Check if this tool is right for your request.

If you need other options, submit Forms 2848 or 8821

Individual taxpayers

Tax Pro Account is for authorization requests to individuals. They must have both:

• An address in the 50 United States or the District of Columbia
• An ability to access an IRS online account

Tax years and tax matters

You can request authorizations for calendar year filers for periods from the last 20 years through the current year, plus 3 future years (except where noted) for:

• Form 1040 Income Tax
• Split Spousal Assessment or Form 8857 Innocent Spouse Relief
• Shared Responsibility Payment (2014 or later)
• Shared Responsibility Payment - Split Spousal Assessment (2014 or later)
• Civil Penalty (limited to periods of March, June, September and December)

Prior authorizations revoked

If you submit with Tax Pro Account, prior authorizations on file for the same tax matters, tax periods and authorization types will be revoked. 

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Tax Pro Account is available:

• Monday 6 a.m. ET to Saturday 9 p.m. ET
• Sunday 10 a.m. to midnight ET (occasionally down for maintenance)

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If you use a screen reader or magnifier or voice command software, refer to the Tax Pro Account Accessibility Guide .

Help Topics

Taxpayer information, online account access.

To complete an authorization with Tax Pro Account, the individual taxpayer must have access to an IRS online account .

You can submit a request before the taxpayer creates an online account. Once the taxpayer creates an account and signs in, they can find your request in their Authorizations.

Taxpayer address

The taxpayer address you enter in Tax Pro Account must match our records. Have the taxpayer check a recent notice from the IRS to confirm the name and address we have on file.

The address must be in a U.S. state or the District of Columbia. Use approved abbreviations, such as "St" for street and "Ave" for avenue. See  Approved Abbreviations .

If the taxpayer’s address has changed, ask them to notify us .  

If you don't have a CAF number

To request authorizations with Tax Pro Account, you must have a CAF number .

You can get a CAF number the first time you submit a third-party authorization with Forms 2848 or 8821 . After we process the authorization, we’ll send you a letter with your assigned CAF number. You can then use the number to submit authorization requests with Tax Pro Account.

If you’re a tax professional and can’t locate your CAF number, call the Practitioner Priority Service at  866-860-4259 . An assistor can help you retrieve your CAF number once you verify your identity.  

CAF address

The address you enter in Tax Pro Account must match what’s on the CAF file at the IRS.

To update your CAF address, sign and date a written notification of address change. Mail or fax it to the location where you filed the  Form 2848  or  Form 8821 .

Linking your CAF number

When you link your CAF number in Tax Pro Account, you associate it with your Tax Identification Number in the CAF database.

You can do more in Tax Pro Account when you link your CAF number:

• View all your active authorizations for individuals and businesses recorded on the CAF
• Withdraw in real-time from any active authorization

If you choose not to link your CAF number, you can still request POA and TIA with Tax Pro Account.

How it works:

The CAF number must be assigned to you as an individual and only you can link it. If you have more than one CAF number, you may link them all.

Linking your CAF number is a one-time process. Once your CAF number is linked, you can't unlink it.

To link your CAF number, go to your Profile in Tax Pro Account, select Link a CAF number and follow the 2-step identity verification process.

Using Tax Pro Account

Request status.

Tax Pro Account shows the historical status of requests you submit through the tool.

Generally, your approved authorization request should display in Tax Pro Account within 2 business days after the taxpayer signs and authorizes your request.

Tax Pro Account won't display a status if:

• ​​​​The taxpayer approved the authorization, but we haven't processed it yet
• The taxpayer approved the authorization, but the processing failed
• The taxpayer rejected the authorization
• The taxpayer revokes or the tax professional withdraws the authorization

For information on your request status before processing is complete, contact the taxpayer.

Active authorizations

Tax Pro Account lets you view all of your active authorizations on the CAF when you link your CAF number. This includes active POAs and TIAs from individuals and business entities submitted with forms and through Tax Pro Account.

If you choose not to link your CAF number, you can view only active POAs and TIAs submitted through Tax Pro Account.

Withdraw authorizations

You can withdraw an authorization in real-time with electronic signature in Tax Pro Account.

Once you withdraw, the authorization is immediately and permanently removed from the CAF database.

Multiple representatives

To request authorization for more than one representative for the same tax matters and periods:

• Each representative must log in with their account to submit their own request.
• Only 2 representatives may receive copies of a taxpayer’s IRS notices and communications.
• The taxpayer must authorize all representatives  on the same day.

Overlapping tax periods

If you request authorizations for overlapping tax periods and tax matters, the subsequent overlapping requests will not process if the taxpayer approves them on the same day. 

To ensure proper processing, you can review and manage your authorization requests in Tax Pro Account. 

If you need more options, submit Forms 2848 and 8821 .

Submitting authorizations with Tax Pro Account versus Submit Forms 2848 and 8821 Online

Tax Pro Account doesn’t require forms and processes authorizations within 2 business days after the taxpayer approves your request.

Submit Forms 2848 and 8821 Online lets you securely upload forms and processes authorizations on a first-in, first-out basis.

Power of attorney and other authorizations Centralized Authorization File (CAF) rules Practice Before the IRS and Power of Attorney, Publication 947

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This section describes how to change node membership or node IP address in a Controller Cluster.

Deploying a Controller Cluster

Removing both Followers (Dismantling the Cluster)

Changing a Follower Node

Replacing the Leader Node

Replacing a Follower Node with a New Node

Changing resources/flavor for nodes in a clustered controller deployment

If you change the IP address of an Controller node, you must run a script to update the configuration.