IPShowIP.netPublic IP and request tools

Guide

What Is an IP Address?

An IP address is the return address a device, router, VPN, or network uses when it talks to services on the internet.

Look up an IP address

How an IP address works

When your browser asks a server for a page, the server needs an address for the reply. That address is the public IP address visible to the server.

Many home and office networks put several devices behind one public address. In that case, ShowIP sees the router, ISP, VPN, or proxy address rather than a unique device address.

What an IP lookup can tell you

An IP lookup can usually identify whether the address is IPv4 or IPv6, the approximate network, and sometimes the city or region associated with the network.

IP geolocation is approximate. It is useful for network context, but it is not GPS and should not be treated as a precise physical location.

Key terms

IP
Internet Protocol address
Public IP
Address visible to internet services
Private IP
Address used inside a local network

Examples

IPv4 vs IPv6 Compare address versions, notation, and network-size differences. Public vs private IP Understand why websites see your router, ISP, VPN, or proxy address. Your IP address Look up an IPv4 or IPv6 address with location and ASN context.

FAQ

Can an IP address identify my exact device?

Usually no. Public IP addresses often identify a router, ISP gateway, VPN, proxy, or organization network rather than a specific device.

Why does my IP address change?

Many ISPs rotate addresses, mobile networks change gateways, and VPNs or proxies can replace the address websites see.