Understanding your IPv4 address
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) is the original and still most common internet addressing system. An IPv4 address is a 32-bit number shown as four octets separated by dots, like 198.51.100.24. Each connection on the internet has a unique public IPv4 address assigned by its Internet Service Provider.
Public vs private IPv4
Inside your home, every device (phone, laptop, TV) has a private IPv4 address handed out by your router, such as 192.168.1.10. To the outside world, all of them share one public IPv4, the address shown above. To find your local one, see what is my router IP.
Why IPv4 addresses ran out
IPv4 supports about 4.3 billion addresses, which the explosion of internet-connected devices exhausted. That shortage led to the creation of IPv6, with a practically unlimited supply. Many networks now run both side by side.
Explore more: IP location, VPN check, or test your internet speed.
Frequently asked questions
What is my IPv4 address?
Your IPv4 address is the standard four-number public address that identifies your network on the internet, such as 203.0.113.42. It is shown at the top of this page exactly as servers and websites see it.
What does an IPv4 address look like?
An IPv4 address has four numbers (0–255) separated by dots, for example 192.0.2.1. Private home addresses usually start with 192.168, 10. or 172.16–31, while your public IPv4 is assigned by your ISP.
What is the difference between public and private IPv4?
Your public IPv4 is the single address your whole home network shows to the internet. Private IPv4 addresses (like 192.168.0.5) are used inside your network for each device. This page shows your public IPv4.
Why is my IPv4 different from my friend's?
Every internet connection gets its own public IPv4 from its ISP, tied to a rough geographic area. Different networks, cities and providers all have different addresses.