IP Address
Learn what an IP address is, how it works, and why it matters in proxy usage.
This guide explains what an IP address is, how it functions, and why it’s important when using proxies.
What Is an IP Address?
An IP address (Internet Protocol Address) is a unique identifier assigned to every device connected to the internet.
Think of it as a mailing address for your device — without it, data wouldn’t know where to go.
When you visit a website, your IP address tells the site where to send the information you requested.
It can also reveal your approximate location, internet provider, and network type.
How IP Addresses Work
- Every device gets an IP address from its Internet Service Provider (ISP).
- When you make a request (like opening a website), your IP acts as a return address.
- The server sends data back to that address — completing the connection.
Types of IP Addresses
There are several types of IPs depending on their use, assignment method, and format.
1. Public vs. Private IP Addresses
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Public IP Address | Assigned by your ISP and used to communicate over the internet. |
| Private IP Address | Used within local networks (e.g., home Wi-Fi) to identify internal devices. |
2. Static vs. Dynamic IP Addresses
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Static IP Address | Fixed and unchanging. Common for servers, businesses, and VPNs. |
| Dynamic IP Address | Changes periodically. Used by most home connections for flexibility. |
3. IPv4 vs. IPv6
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| IPv4 | Classic format with four number sets, e.g. 192.168.1.1. Still the most common. |
| IPv6 | Newer format supporting many more devices, e.g. 2001:db8::ff00:42:8329. |
Why IP Addresses Matter in Proxies
When using proxies, your real IP is replaced with another one — masking your location and identity.
This provides privacy, allows region-based access, and reduces the risk of detection or blocking.
1. Residential vs. Datacenter IPs
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Residential IPs | Provided by ISPs to real devices. Highly trusted and less likely to be flagged. |
| Datacenter IPs | Generated by data centers or hosting services. Faster, but easier to detect. |
2. Rotating vs. Sticky IPs
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Rotating IPs | Change with every request or at timed intervals — ideal for scraping and automation. |
| Sticky IPs | Remain constant for a session — best for logins, account management, or testing. |
How to Check Your IP Address
You can easily find your public IP:
- Search “What is my IP” on Google.
- Visit whatismyip.com.
- Check network details in your router or device settings.
Tips and Best Practices
- Use proxies to protect your identity and location online.
- Residential IPs → more privacy and authenticity.
- Datacenter IPs → more speed and cost efficiency.
- IPv6 is expanding, but IPv4 remains dominant for most users.
- Choose a reliable provider like Geonode to balance security, anonymity, and performance.
Summary
An IP address is your device’s online identifier — essential for routing internet traffic.
Using a proxy lets you control or hide that identity, giving you:
- More privacy,
- Better regional access, and
- Stronger protection online.