Can an IP address be traced?

An IP address can be traced to reveal your approximate location and ISP. It doesn't provide exact personal details, but websites, advertisers, and malicious actors can use it to track your online activity, such as the websites you visit, the time you spend online, and your browsing habits across different platforms.

Can an IP address be changed?

You can change your IP address in several ways, but the safest is by using a VPN. It conceals your IP, replaces it with one from a secure server, and encrypts(new window) [https://proton.me/learn/encryption] your internet traffic. Even if someone intercepts your connection, they wouldn't be able to decrypt the data.

What is an IP scanner and how does it work?

An IP scanner is a tool that identifies devices on a network. It sends network requests across a range of IP addresses, identifies which IPs respond, and reveals active devices and their open ports. This data helps to spot potential security vulnerabilities, such as unauthorized connections.

How do I know if my IP address is leaking?

After connecting to a VPN server, use the IP scanner on this page to verify if your real IP is hidden and replaced by the VPN’s. For added security, enable Proton VPN’s kill switch to ensure your IP stays protected, even if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops.

What is my IP address?

Find your IP address and check that your VPN is working.

My IP address:

My IP address location:

Internet Service Provider:

Your IP address is visible to the websites you visit

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What is an IP address?

An IP address is like a car's license plate on the internet. It doesn't reveal who you are directly, but it shows where you're going (the websites you visit), how often, and even patterns in your browsing activity.

What your IP address reveals about you

Every website you visit can see your IP address — along with advertisers, governments, Big Tech companies, hackers, and your ISP. They can use this data to track your behavior and location, build profiles for targeted ads, launch cyberattacks, and make you more vulnerable to surveillance.

Why you should hide your IP address

Leaving your IP address exposed puts your privacy at risk. A VPN helps protect your identity by hiding your IP and encrypting your internet traffic, ensuring that no one can track your online activity.

Hide my IP address

How you can use your IP address

Check if your VPN is working

Verifying your public IP address is the easiest way to confirm that your VPN is working correctly and that your real IP is hidden. Here’s what you should do:

Step 1

Disconnect from VPN

Make sure the VPN connection is turned off, so you're browsing with your real internet connection.

Step 2

Find your real IP

Open this page to see the IP address your ISP has assigned to you — your true public IP.

Step 3

Connect to a server

Turn the VPN back on and connect to a server — preferably one in a different location or country.

Step 4

Refresh your browser

Return to this page. Your IP should now be different, meaning your VPN is working.

Connect remotely to your home network

Perhaps you want to host a game server or access your home security camera while you’re away by setting up port forwarding. In this case, you will need your public IP to establish a direct connection.

Stay secure at work

Many businesses enforce IP whitelisting(new window), meaning access to internal tools and systems is restricted to specific, approved IP addresses. If your company requires this, you may need to provide your IP address to gain access when working remotely or traveling.

Hide your IP address with Proton VPN

Your data stays private and secure
Block ads, trackers, and malware
No leaks, so your identity is always hidden
Protect up to 10 devices

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Frequently asked questions

Can an IP address be traced?: An IP address can be traced to reveal your approximate location and ISP. It doesn't provide exact personal details, but websites, advertisers, and malicious actors can use it to track your online activity, such as the websites you visit, the time you spend online, and your browsing habits across different platforms.
Can an IP address be changed?: You can change your IP address in several ways, but the safest is by using a VPN. It conceals your IP, replaces it with one from a secure server, and encrypts(new window) your internet traffic. Even if someone intercepts your connection, they wouldn't be able to decrypt the data.
What is an IP scanner and how does it work?: An IP scanner is a tool that identifies devices on a network. It sends network requests across a range of IP addresses, identifies which IPs respond, and reveals active devices and their open ports. This data helps to spot potential security vulnerabilities, such as unauthorized connections.
How do I know if my IP address is leaking?: After connecting to a VPN server, use the IP scanner on this page to verify if your real IP is hidden and replaced by the VPN’s. For added security, enable Proton VPN’s kill switch to ensure your IP stays protected, even if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops.