How to Find Your IP Address: 7 Methods in 2025

Recently helped a friend set up remote access to his computer, and he asked: "How do I find out my IP?". Seems like a simple question, but when I started explaining, I realized there are tons of methods, and each suits different situations.

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is the unique number of your device on the network. Think of it like your home's postal address, only for a computer. Without it, the internet simply can't find you and deliver the data you need.

Why Know Your IP Address?

Honestly, most users don't think about it for years. But there are situations where knowing your IP is essential:

• Setting up remote computer access
• Network connection issues
• Configuring router or printer
• Working with VPN

External vs Local IP: What's the Difference?

This is where many get confused. Let's break it down:

External IP (Public)

This is the address you're seen with on the internet. It's assigned by your internet provider. Usually one per home or office.

Local IP (Private)

This is the address within your home network. The router assigns them to each device: computer, phone, tablet.

Method 1: Online Service (Easiest)

This is my favorite method because it works on any device and requires no configuration.

Simply visit IPChecker Pro, and your IP is displayed immediately on the homepage. As a bonus, the service shows:

• Your provider
• Location (city and country)
• Connection type

Method 2: Windows Command Line

For those who like to dig into the system:

1. Press Win + R
2. Type cmd and press Enter
3. Enter the command ipconfig

Look for the 'IPv4 Address' line - that's your local IP.

Method 4: Through Router Settings

If you need to find your external IP that the entire internet sees, you can access your router settings:

1. Open your browser and enter your router's address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
2. Log in with username and password (often admin/admin, but check the router label)
3. Find the 'Status' or 'WAN' section - your external IP will be there

This method is useful when you need to set up port forwarding or remote access.

Method 5: MacOS and Linux Terminal

For Mac and Linux users, it's even simpler:

MacOS:

Open Terminal (Command + Space, type 'Terminal')

Enter command: ifconfig | grep 'inet '

Linux:

Open terminal (usually Ctrl + Alt + T)

Commands: ip addr show or hostname -I

Method 6: On Smartphone (iOS and Android)

Finding IP on your phone is easy too:

iPhone (iOS):

1. Settings → Wi-Fi
2. Tap the (i) next to your connected network
3. Scroll down to 'IPv4 Address' section

Android:

1. Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi
2. Tap on the active network
3. Find 'IP address' in advanced settings

Method 7: Checking via VPN

An interesting way - check if your VPN is working:

1. Check your IP without VPN (e.g., through IPChecker Pro)
2. Enable VPN
3. Check your IP again - it should change and show the VPN server's country

If the IP hasn't changed - you have a VPN connection problem or there's a leak. This is an important security check!

Conclusion

Now you know how to find your IP address in different ways. For quick external IP checks, use online services, and for local network configuration - system tools.