QuestionsAnswered.net
What's Your Question?
Locating an IP Address
You may hear the term IP address as it relates to online activity. Learn how to locate your IP address or someone else’s IP address when necessary.
What Is an IP Address?
IP stands for “internet protocol.” An IP address identifies your computer or your device by an internet number in much the same way your house or apartment has a number that identifies it on your street. Your IP address enables you to have a connection to the internet by following the set protocols and specifications set up for these connections.
A common type of IP address is known as an IPv4 address. This IP address has four three-digit numbers separated by dots. Without your IP address, you can’t connect to the internet, send information or retrieve information. A newer type of IP address is called the IPv6 address. This IP address has eight separate clusters of four hexadecimal digits, separated by colons.
Why Find an IP Address?
If you know someone’s IP address, you can discover some information. An IP address won’t show someone’s name, phone number or exact physical location, but it should reveal the general geographic area. The geographic location revealed by an IP address look-up may be very close to the user’s location, or it might be hundreds of miles away. An IP address will show the internet service provider used as well. Law enforcement typically looks up IP addresses to find ISP information. An online retailer will often use an IP look-up tool to make sure that consumers placing orders are located in the general vicinity of the mailing address associated with a credit card. An IP address can also verify someone’s general vicinity if fraud is a possibility.
How to Locate an IP Address on a Website
You have a couple of options for finding an IP address associated with a website. On a Windows operating system, open the command prompt and enter “ping” and the web address of the website. Click “enter” and your computer will search for the IP address to display it. Once you have the IP address, use an IP look-up tool to get more information. Navigate to a website such as “WhatismyIPaddress.com” and enter the IP address in the search field to see information about the general vicinity of the IP address.
What’s My IP Address?
If you’re curious about your own IP address, you can use the IP look-up tool to learn your own number. Again, navigating to a website such as “WhatismyIPaddress.com” will get you the information you want. Once on the website, the tool will detect your IP address and display the number.
Get an IP Address From an Email
If you get an email and you want to know the IP address of the sender, you can check the header to find out. Most email browsers have an option to display email headers. With an email message open, look for a setting option called “headers” or “internet headers.” Once you find it and turn it on, identifying information for the email message will display, including the sender’s IP address. Some people will modify email header information, so it’s smart to verify an IP address by using the command prompt ping process.
MORE FROM QUESTIONSANSWERED.NET
How To Change Your IP Address
Whether to gain more privacy or access certain content, you can change your device’s IP address using the methods in this guide
- How to Change
- What is an IP Address
- Where to Find It
- Pros & Cons
Even though you may be in cyberspace, you’re still in a specific, virtual location defined by your IP address. But for those who want to stay private, get around government restrictions, and the like, changing your IP address is a simple first step. In this article, we’ll tell you how to change your IP address, step-by-step, along with providing you with more information about the types of IP addresses, the pros and cons of changing them, and more. Get your invisibility cloak ready because we’re about to go private or as private as you can be online.
See the exact steps to changing your IP address on an iPhone, Android, Mac and Windows computer. Also, learn why you would want to change your IP address in the first place.
Easily Change Your IP Address with a VPN
Whatever your reasons are for changing your IP address, whether to stream certain content or to gain privacy, using a VPN is one of the most secure ways to do so. A VPN cloaks your real IP address with its own server IP address, and it encrypts your browsing traffic so that no one else sees what you’re doing online. Change your IP address with a single mouse click with these VPNs that we tested ourselves:
Besides using a VPN to change your IP address, which we’ll discuss further below how to do, there are a few other ways to change your IP address.
One of the most straightforward ways is to adjust your device’s settings. This, however, only works if your network has an available address to which you can change your current IP address. In addition, your new IP address will still be tied to your local network, and thus, it can be geo-tracked to your approximate location just like the old one.
How to Change Your IP Address on Mac Manually
- Go to System Preferences.
- Click Network.
- Click Network Connection.
- Click Configure IPv4.
- Select Manually.
- Type in your IP address.
How to Change Your IP Address on Windows Manually
- Click Administrator Account.
- Click Start.
- Click Control Panel.
- Select Local Area Connection.
- Click Properties.
- Select TCP/IP.
- Type in the IP address.
How to Change Your IP Address on Android Manually
- Go to your Android Settings.
- Navigate to Wireless & Networks.
- Click on your Wi-Fi network.
- Click Modify Network.
- Select Advanced Options.
- Change the IP address.
How to Change Your IP Address on iOS Manually
- Go to your iOS device’s Settings.
- Click Wi-Fi.
- Select IPv4 Address.
- Click Configure IP.
- Enter your IP address.
How to Change Your IP Address on Router Manually
- Turn off your router.
- Turn it back on a day later.
- Go to your administrative interface and reconnect to your ISP.
If you want your device to pick a new IP address for you automatically, here’s what to do.
How to Change Your IP Address on Mac Automatically
- Go to your Mac’s System Preferences app.
- Select Network Connection.
- Click Configure iPv4.
- Select Using DHCP.
How to Change Your IP Address on Windows Automatically
- Enter your Administrator Account.
- Go to Network Connections.
- Click Location Area Connection.
- Click Obtain An IP Address Automatically 1
How to Change Your IP Address on Android Automatically
- Click Settings.
- Select Connections.
- Select the network you’re on currently.
- Click Advanced.
- Select either DHCP or Static.
How to Change Your IP Address on iOS Automatically
- Go to your iPhone or iPad’s Settings.
- Select Network.
- Select your network.
- Click IPv4 Address.
- Choose Automatic.
If you don’t already have a new IP address or you don’t want one the automatic address from your device, then you can connect to a Virtual Private Network or VPN. VPNs will replace your IP address and encrypt all of your web activity. You may get the same IP address every time you connect (static), or a different one each time (dynamic). Some VPNs also offer dedicated IP addresses, if you want to be the only one with that address. With any VPN:
How to Change Your IP Address with a VPN
- Download the VPN app.
- Create an account.
- Click Connect.
We choose NordVPN as our best VPN for speed and security. Find out for yourself .
To learn more, read about the best VPN for every occasion or our comprehensive VPN guide .
A sister to VPNs is proxy servers , intermediary devices that hide IP addresses. 2 Here’s how to connect to a proxy server on your Mac, Windows, Android or iOS device.
How to Connect to Proxy Server on Mac
- Open Safari, Macs’ default browser.
- Click Preferences.
- Select Change Settings.
- Update the Settings with the information that the network administrator provided in the System Preferences pop-up.
How to Connect to Proxy Server on Windows
- Go to your Administrative Templates.
- Select Windows Components.
- Click Data Collection and Preview Builds.
- Click Configure Authenticated Proxy Usage.
- Select Disable Authenticated Proxy Usage.
How to Connect to Proxy Server on Android
- Go to your Android’s Settings.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Select your networks’ name.
- Hit Modify Network.
- Select Manual.
- Enter in your proxy port and hostname.
- Click Save.
How to Connect to Proxy Server on iOS
- Enter your phone or tablet’s Settings.
- Click on the “I” button next to username.
- Click HTTP Proxy.
- Select Edit Proxy Settings.
- Turn on Authentication.
- Return to the previous window.
Tor is a secure browser that, along with hiding your IP address, will also prevent tracking and targeted ads. Once you’re off a website, its cookies will clear as will your browsing history. Both your IP address and your web activity will be encrypted not once, not twice but three times. 3 Just download the browser from Tor’s website to hide your IP address when browsing online!
Note: Although the websites you visit won’t be able to see your private IP address, Tor will log it themselves, according to their Privacy Notice. If you don’t want your IP address logged, choose a VPN with a strict privacy policy.
What Is An IP Address?
Of course, some people may not be totally clear on what an IP address actually is; no shame here! An IP address, which standards for an internet protocol address, is a device’s identifying number associated with a specific computer or network of computers. Basically, IP addresses let computers send and receive information, but they can also be used to track the physical locations of users, 4 a nightmare for those concerned with privacy. And according to our VPN usage research , that accounts for 40 percent of VPN-users.
Get Started with NordVPN and Change Your IP
Types of IP Addresses
Not all IP addresses are created equal! Rather, they can be divided into a few different categories, some of which have certain advantages over others.
- Public : Each and every internet-connected device has a public IP address, distributed by the Internet Service Providers vis-à-vis the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. What, you haven’t heard of ICANN? Nevertheless, these public IP addresses are searchable on the web, which is why we can find our printer simply by Googling its IP address .
- Private/ local : In contrast to public IP addresses, private IP addresses aren’t searchable on the web. Rather, they’re numbers that routers assign the devices on their networks so that they can communicate with each other.
- Dynamic : Dynamic IP addresses, as we mentioned before, are any type of IP address that change every time you connect, usually through a VPN. This makes users hard to track online, as their literal address keeps changing.
- Static : Static means that the IP addresses do not change. With VPNs, static IP addresses are usually shared with thousands of users in order to obscure their identities. However, some websites block these shared IP addresses, which necessitates users getting dedicated IP addresses. What a convenient transition!
- Dedicated : Dedicated IP addresses are assigned to only one user rather than being shared by several. They usually cost a different fee on top of the regular VPN subscription.
- IPv4 : Internet Protocol version 4 is used by 99 percent of networks, but since it can only store 4.3 billion addresses, it’s being replaced by IPv6, which we’ll get to in a second. Unlike IPv6, IPv4 addresses are four one bite numbers separated by dots like 555.555.1.1.
- IPv6 : While they’re only used by less than 1 percent of networks, IPv6 has its advantages over IPv4, namely that it can provide an infinite number of addresses. It also allows for larger payloads and is compatible with a greater number of mobile networks. Although they’re starting small, eventually, IPv6 will replace IPv4. 5
Where To Find Your IP Address
Feeling lost in the sauce? Finding your IP address isn’t that complicated, even if you’re not a tech expert like us.
Where to Find Your IP Address on Mac
- Enter your Mac’s System Preferences.
- Select your Wi-Fi network.
- Look where it says IPv4 Address.
Where to Find Your IP Address on Windows
- Enter your TaskBar.
- Click on Wi-Fi Network.
- Look under IPv4 Address.
Where to Find Your IP Address on Android
- Enter your phone’s Settings.
- Click About.
- Click Status.
- Look at the IP Address.
Where to Find Your IP Address on iOS
- Click on the “I” button next to Network.
- ILook under IPv4 Address.
Pros and Cons of Changing Addresses
Of course, there’s always the debate of whether or not to change your IP address in the first place. While the angel on your shoulder tells you it’s a great way to increase your privacy and access other country’s servers, the devil tells you that it could be costly, that some websites won’t work and that your ISP will still be able to see your address. There’s truth to both of these sides, so we recommend making your decisions on a case-by-case basis. That being said, we broke down the main reasons why you should and shouldn’t change your IP address.
Why You Should Change Your IP Address
- Avoid tracking : If you’ve ever searched for anything related to consumerism, then you probably already notice how your searches seem to follow you around the internet like you owe them money. This sort of tracking is made possible by cookies, which some antivirus software can disable.
- Bypass government restrictions : Governments like China greatly restrict internet usage in their country, so if you want to bypass firewalls, changing your IP address is a must.
- Access international servers : Maybe you simply want to see what’s on Netflix Canada from your apartment in California. By changing your IP address to a Canadian one, you can trick the streaming giant into showing you a whole lot of new content.
FYI: Not all VPNs are compatible with Netflix. To find one that’s right for you, read our review of the best VPNs for Netflix .
- Gain privacy : Maybe you’re an activist, a journalist, or anyone else handling sensitive information, or maybe you just don’t want your Internet Service Provider to track your every move. If that’s the case, changing your IP address is a step in the right direction in terms of privacy.
- Increase security : Most people think nothing of joining public Wi-Fi networks (and depending on your settings, this may even happen automatically). However, using public Wi-Fi opens up a slew of security risks, with hacking at the forefront. But by hiding your real IP address, you greatly lower your risk of hackings .
Why You Shouldn’t Change Your IP Address
- Some websites won’t work : Some websites, like the aforementioned Netflix, won’t work with certain VPNs or proxies. So while they may be able to bypass government restrictions, that doesn’t stop individual websites from blocking certain IP addresses.
- Not always legal : Depending on where you are, VPNs may not be legal; they’re banned in China, Belarus, Iran and a few other countries, so keep that in mind before you connect.
- May slow down connection : Any added encryption will slow down your browsing speeds, although the exact slowdowns will differ from service to service. Still, if you’re performing tasks that require a lot of bandwidth like streaming video or video chatting, you might experience some frustrating lag.
- VPN may log data : Again, depending on the service, your VPN company may be logging the very information you want to hide, like your IP address and web traffic. Our advice? Always read the VPN’s privacy policy, which we cover in our individual VPN reviews.
- Could cost money : Not all VPNs are free (except of course, the ones that are; check out the best free VPNs to see what we’re talking about). Still, free VPNs typically have limits on time, data, or servers, so if you want full coverage, you might have to pony up some dough. ISP will still be able to see IP: Even with a new IP address, your Internet Service Provider will be able to see it, so you’re never truly “private” when you’re online.
Overall, we’re of the faith that changing your IP address is a necessity at times, and we love that there’s more than one way to do it. We hope we answered all of your questions about changing your IP address, but if we didn’t, read on.
Being public digital security experts, we’re constantly inundated with a number of questions surrounding changing your IP address. Here are those questions, with, you guessed it, answers.
You can change your IP address in your device settings or by using the Tor browser, a VPN or a proxy server.
Changing your IP address may or may not be legal; it depends on how you do it and where you’re located. For example, using a VPN to change your IP address is legal in the U.S but illegal in China.
Your IP address may show a different city if you’re connected to a VPN or proxy server with servers in that city. That may be the closest server to you, or simply the one that allows for the lowest bandwidth usage.
Resetting your router may or may not change your IP address, depending on how long you wait before you turn it back on. We recommend waiting for about a day in order to get a new IP address.
Microsoft. (2020). How to change the IP address of a network adapter . docs.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-server/networking/change-ip-address-network-adapter
SmartProxy. (2020). How to Change Your IP Address Right Now . smartproxy.com/what-is-a-proxy/change-ip
Tor Project. (2020). Browse Privately. Explore Freely . torproject.org/
Investopedia. (2020). IP Address . investopedia.com/terms/i/ip-address.asp
Linksys. (2020). Differences between IPv4 and IPv6 . https://community.fs.com/blog/ipv4-vs-ipv6-whats-the-difference.html
- Digital Freedom
- Digital Security
- How To Guides
- Pure Secure Podcast
- PureVPN News
- Get PureVPN
How to Change Your IP Address on Android Devices
March 1, 2023
8 Mins Read
Table of Contents
In this day and age, tracking a person’s whereabouts is not difficult at all. You can also track the complete history of where a person went today, what he did today, or what his daily routine has been over the past few days.
You only need to be a bit skilled at unethical hacking and know how to find a phone’s IP address or ways to change IP address on Android device .
Not interested in hacking or basic ethics don’t allow you to indulge in hacking and making other people’s life miserable? Well, that’s awesome, and we need more people like you in the world!
Unfortunately, not all people think like that, especially hackers. These cybercriminals can do a lot of damage to your privacy or sensitive data than you can handle. They can do all that and much more by tracking your IP address.
To get around such problems, you need to learn how to change the IP address on your Android devices. But, let’s first learn what is an IP address is and why you need to change the IP location of your Android device.
How to Change Your IP Address to Another Country on Android Devices
You don’t need to bug your geeky friends or learn how to code when it comes to changing your IP address , whether you are using an iPhone, Android, Mac, computer, or laptop. There are three different ways to change your IP address even if you are using your home network.
Here are the top three ways you can change your IP address:
1. Use a VPN or Virtual Private Network
A VPN app can be your best and absolutely safest bet at hiding your IP address from your internet service provider and surveillance agencies. All you have to do is turn on the VPN app, choose a country server, and you are virtually transported to another location (city, country, or continent). Just a laptop click away. Using a VPN is like signing into your Gmail or Facebook account. Click and you’re online. Even though your ISP doesn’t see your activities once you’re connected to a VPN, in most countries with a few rare exceptions , using a VPN is completely allowed by any ISP’s Terms of Service. Easy peasy.
2. Use Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is just like your Google Chrome or Opera browser but with high-grade anonymity. Some privacy experts in our company are not a big fan of the Tor browser and say that it derails your privacy and is breakable. But all in all, you can use the Tor browser, also known as Onion Router, to remain anonymous online as long as you want. Be mindful that Tor is so anonymous that your access may be limited (not all external sites are fond of Tor either), but it is a good option if you need to change your IP address, assuming your destination lets you in.
3. Use a Proxy Server
A proxy server is like a gateway that is specifically designed to help you access region-locked websites and services (just what a VPN does). You can also use a proxy server to install P2P files. There are two types of proxy servers that help you regulate outbound and inbound internet traffic: a Forward proxy and a Reverse proxy. However, unlike a VPN, a proxy server doesn’t encrypt your internet traffic or offer any multi-device compatibility.
How to Change Your IP Address of Android Phone
- Go to your Android Settings
- Tap Wireless & Networks
- Go to the Wi-Fi section
- Tap & hold the Wi-Fi network that you are connected to right now
- Tap Modify Network
- Expand or Go to Advanced options
- Change your android’s IP Address DHCP to Static.
How to Find Your Android Device’s IP Address (Local IP):
- Go to the Settings
- Scroll down and tap About Phone
- Now, tap Status
- Scroll down, and you will see both the local IP and Mac address of your Android device.
With the above steps, you can find out the local IP address of your Android. However, if you want to learn about your public IP address, check it on https://www.purevpn.com/what-is-my-ip or https://whatismyipaddress.com/ . You can also learn multiple ways to find your IP address or different operating systems .
How to Change IP Address and Location on Android with VPN?
- First of all, sign up for PureVPN.
- Visit the PureVPN Android app page to download the Android version.
- Once you have installed the app on your Android device, open the app, and use your PureVPN credentials to log in.
- Choose the destination of your choice and hit connect.
- Now visit the https://www.purevpn.com/what-is-my-ip or https://whatismyipaddress.com/ to check your new IP and location.
What is an IP Address?
IP address follows a 32-bit numeral format. It is an identity that a device receives when it connects to the Internet. The same ID is used on the network to communicate amongst devices on a network.
The website addresses you remember easily are based on IP addresses. IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) is currently the most common IP format used around the globe. However, in the coming years, IPv6 will become the standard IP format globally, which uses the 128-bit numerical system.
Note: Read a brief guide on What is an IP Address?
Image Credit: FCC.Gov
Types of IP Address
When you join a network, you are assigned an IP address by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Depending on the type of connection or your ISP’s preference, you may be assigned either a static IP address or a dynamic IP address.
Static IP Address
As the name suggests, it is the IP address that never changes. You may also call it a dedicated IP address or a personal IP address.
ISPs don’t usually assign a static IP address unless the user requests it. It is frequently used by gamers, remote workers as well as website owners.
The IP address serves as a personal key to unlock access to certain web services and applications. For instance, users would allow (Whitelist) an IP address on their website CMS so that only they can access the system using a static IP from any network.
- It is reliable for gaming as well as VoIP applications.
- It is ideal for accessing remote networks or connections securely.
- It is great for apps and services that use geolocation.
- It experiences less downtime.
- It allows devices to communicate with remote devices reliably.
- It can be tracked easily since it doesn’t change when the connection resets.
- It is expensive than its counterpart.
- If a service blocks the IP, the user would have to change the IP to regain access.
- It poses a potential security risk.
- It is set up manually by the user.
Note: Learn more about Static vs. Dynamic IP Address
Dynamic IP Address
Unlike a static IP address, a dynamic IP address changes at every new connection or when the connection resets.
It is one of the most commonly used IP address type by an ISP. After all, it is way more cost-effective than its counterpart, the static IP. Moreover, the IP address is used by all types of internet users.
One of the best aspects of using a dynamic IP is that a user wouldn’t need to go through complicated steps to setup it up since it is configured automatically.
- It is cheaper than static IP addresses.
- It offers a user better privacy since it changes with every new connection.
- It can be changed at any time by restarting the router.
- It doesn’t require any manual setup process.
- It cannot be whitelisted because whitelisting requires a fixed IP.
- It is shared with multiple users at any given time.
- It may experience extended downtime.
- It may lack remote access functionality.
Why do you need to Change an IP Address?
Only a VPN such as PureVPN can help you hide your IP and location with an anonymous IP . Here are the benefits you get to experience with a VPN.
1) Get Past Blocked Websites
The best advantage of using a VPN service is that you can circumvent the content restrictions usually placed by the government or an ISP. As a result, you can enjoy all your favorite applications or websites that don’t work in your country.
2) Protect Your Data
A VPN enables a user to mask the IP and protects the data transmission using 256-bit encryption. The military-grade encryption keeps all types of data hacks at bay, thereby keeping your data secure.
3) Become Anonymous
Internet freedom is becoming a significant concern these days. Anyone can identify your real identity through the IPs, even if you use pseudo profiles. With a VPN, you can maintain the strict anonymity of your identity by changing your IP as well as location.
4) Create Different Accounts on a Single Website
Another benefit of using a VPN is that you can create multiple profiles on a single website. Certain websites allow only one account per IP. If you come across such websites, you no longer need to worry about their account restrictions.
Why Does Your Android Device Need an IP Address?
You might be wondering why an Android device would need an IP address?
Well, when you connect to the Internet at your home, office, or any public place, your device is among millions of other devices connected to the network. To communicate with other devices on the network, your device has to have an identity. An IP address is an identity that your device receives on a local or public network.
The communication flow on the Internet works in terms of packet flows. You send a packet (information) to another device so it can receive it. And, you do it back and forth. Unless you know the other person’s identity (IP address), you won’t be able to connect and thus send any packets.
Likewise, your Android is also a device, and thus to work on the Internet, it needs to have an IP address so that it can start sending and receiving data packets.
Why Should You Care About the IP Address?
Before we teach you how you can change or hide the IP Address on Android devices, let’s take a quick look at the dangers associated with having your real IP exposed.
- You Can’t Access Region-Locked Content : There are many reasons why a country would restrict particular online material. Regardless of the reason, they limit the content by blocking it on the IP your ISP assigns.
- You are Prone to Cyberattacks : When you use your real IP on a network, anyone who knows your IP can quickly launch a cyberattack on your device. These cyberattacks may range from security exploits to privacy breaches to full-blown DDoS attacks.
- You Can’t Use Your Rights to Free Speech : Freedom of speech is becoming a difficult thing to exercise these days. For instance, if you make any controversial comment against authority, you can be tracked through your real IP even if you use a pseudo profile.
If you are worried about your data security, online privacy, or getting past the dreaded location-blocks, change your Android device’s IP address with the steps mentioned above. Enjoy an anonymous Internet browsing experience with PureVPN like never before.
Related Stories
Why Did eBay Suspend your Account – How to Recover your eBay Account?
How to Watch Portuguese Grand Prix Live Stream
3 Ways to Easily Bypass Mega Download Limit
Have Your Say!!
Join 3 million+ users to embrace internet freedom
Signup for PureVPN to get complete online security and privacy with a hidden IP address and encrypted internet traffic.
Privacy Overview
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
- Drivers & Downloads
- Log in New Customer? Start here
Product FAQs
Before you buy, how do i change my ip address in android os.
- Tap the Settings app.
- Tap Wi-Fi .
- Touch and hold the network that you want to set the IP address for.
- Tap Manage network settings .
Note: Depending on the type of smartphone you are using and the version of the Android OS you are running, the text you see in step 4 might differ from Manage network settings .
- Select the Show advanced options check box.
- Under IP settings , tap the drop-down box.
- Tap Static .
- Enter the new IP address.
- If necessary, repeat step 8 for the gateway.
- Tap Save .
To change your IP address so that you can access a specific device, complete steps 1 to 6, then tap DHCP to access the Internet again.
How to Change Your IP Address on Android?
By Shanika W. . 3 December 2022
Cybersecurity Analyst
Miklos Zoltan
Fact-Checked this
As you may already know, a device’s Internet Protocol (IP) address — whether dynamic or static — is its assigned 32-bit numerical label that can identify its host or network interface and location. You may want to change your IP address or switch it from dynamic to static; we’ll discuss these later.
For now, let’s get into what you really came here for. You’ll be happy to know that, with this straightforward guide, changing your IP address on an Android should be a cinch. You have two options to go about it:
- By using a reliable VPN
- By changing network and internet settings
I’ll walk you through each one…
Using a Reliable VPN
A VPN can protect your internet traffic and your privacy. You can change your IP address to another one to conceal your IP. This is the most secure way to be anonymous on the internet.
1. First, you’ll need to sign up for a reliable and good VPN , such as ExpressVPN , NordVPN, SurfShark, or PureVPN.
2. Visit the Google Play Store and download the relevant apps for your Android mobile.
3. Install the app, open it, and enter your login credentials.
4. To connect, select the location or server of your choice. Sometimes called the “Smart Location”, whatever is recommended is generally best.
Your IP address will change, and no one will know your device’s IP. This is the best-proven way to stay anonymous online.
Changing Your Device’s Network and Internet Settings
These settings apply to any device with the Android operating system installed, be it Huawei, Samsung, Xiaomi, Google, or others. Making changes to the settings is easy.
1. Choose an Available Static IP Address
Before you change your IP address, several things must be done. One is choosing an available static IP address on your local network. This could be done with any computer connected to the local network.
If you have a Windows machine, do the following:
- Type cmd on your Start Menu and click on the Command Prompt desktop application.
- Enter ipconfig/all in the command prompt window and press Enter.
- Check the Default Gateway, DNS Servers, and IPV4 Address details in the command prompt output. Let me briefly introduce what they are and why they’re important for the next step.
Default Gateway
The default gateway is another IP address that the traffic you send from your device gets to when its final destination is outside the current local network.
This is the local network’s router’s private IP address. So, all the devices connected to this network send traffic to this IP address by default.
IPv4 Address
This address is the device you’re currently active on or from which you enter the above commands.
DNS Servers
DNS stands for Domain Name System. Many services operated on the internet or your local area networks, such as Mail servers and web servers, use DNS and are very important. ISPs use DNS server caching to minimize the traffic and avoid bottlenecks.
- Now, to find an available IP address on your local area network, use the ping command on different IP addresses shown in the network. I suggest you start from the router IP or the Default Gateway IP address and keep the process going until you find a free IP address.
This is how to use the ping command:
- How can you determine if it’s available? Simple. If the ping command gives you an output with a response time, an active device on the network is already assigned with the particular IP address. However, if you receive a response that says, “Destination host unreachable,” it’s available and is a possible candidate for your static IP address.
2. Change the IP address on Your Android Mobile Phone
You’ve probably decided what IP address to choose as your static IP address. Now let’s get on with the actual switching.
- Go to your device Settings.
- Head over to the Network & Internet section.
- Tap on Wi-Fi , where you’ll see all the available connections and the one you’re connected to.
- Press and hold the Wi-Fi network your device is already connected to.
- There, tap on Modify network .
- Tap on Advanced options .
- Find the IP Settings section. You may have to scroll down.
- By default, your IP Settings must be set to DHCP. Tap on it and change it to “Static.”
- Fill out the form and configure the network settings manually.
Remember the three critical addresses we discussed? You’ll have to fill out all those details when manually configuring. Here’s where you can use them.
- For the IP address field, enter the free IP address you found earlier in Step 1.
- Then enter the default gateway address (the router’s IP address).
- Enter the DNS Server addresses you found in Step 1.
- Leave the other fields as default and then save.
That’s it. All done!
Once completed all these steps, your device will reconnect to the home network with the new IP address.
As I mentioned, people want to change their IP address for numerous reasons. If you’ve read this far into the article, I bet one or more of the following reasons apply to you:
- To share mobile files with FTP server software
- To use your mobile phone as a Wi-Fi camera
- To access specific online content (e.g., Netflix, government-restricted sites) when you’re in a geo-blocked location.
- To run a mobile web server
- To run a mobile media server on your mobile phone
- To boost your speed because you’re on a network that’s providing controlled bandwidths for different IPs
- To avoid being the victim of cyberattacks
- To exercise freedom of speech in a place where it might otherwise be restricted
Fortunately, nothing should hold you back from doing any of that because now you know how to change your IP address and get a static IP instead of a dynamic IP. And as you’ve seen, this is easy to set up.
Please put your comments and suggestions in the comment section, and ask away if you have any questions!
Shanika Wickramasinghe is a software engineer by profession. She works for WSO2, one of the leading open-source software companies in the world. One of the biggest projects she has worked on is building the WSO2 identity server which has helped her gain insight on security issues. She is keen to share her knowledge and considers writing as the best medium to do so. Cybersecurity is one of her favorite topics to write about.
Being a graduate in Information Technology, she has gained expertise in Cybersecurity, Python, and Web Development. She is passionate about everything she does, but apart from her busy schedule she always finds time to travel and enjoy nature.
- Connect with the author:
October 28, 2022 3:02 pm
It seems that for everbody using an android phone is connected to a wifi spot. Nowhere is showed how to change IP address when you’re using mobile data.
October 26, 2022 3:13 pm
it was a good tutorial, especially the android part.
night_shadow
October 5, 2020 9:49 am
Surfshark works nicely on my Android phone, haven’t had any issues with connectivity. They also have pretty dope features in addition to the VPN service itself.
Leave a Comment Cancel
Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.
- Main content
How to change the IP address on an Android phone or tablet using a 'static' address
- To change the IP address on your Android device, you'll first need to find an available IP address on your network.
- Once you've found an available IP address, you can change your Android's IP address by changing your Wi-Fi settings.
- You'll need to give your Android device a "Static" IP address, and then enter the new IP address.
If you want to host a server using your Android device, you'll need to change your Android's IP address to a static IP. Here's how to do it.
How to find an available IP address for your Android
You need to use a Windows computer to find an available IP address before you can change your Android's IP.
1. On a Windows computer, click on the Start menu and type cmd to make the Command Prompt appear. Click on the Command Prompt once it is visible.
2. In the Command Prompt, type the following command and then press Enter:
ipconfig/all
3. Look for the information called "Default Gateway," "IPv4 Address," and "DNS Servers." The Default Gateway is your network's IP address, while the IPv4 Address is the IP address of the computer you're typing commands from. The DNS Servers are two servers related to your internet service provider and internet usage.
4. To find an available IP address, type the "ping" command followed by the next sequential IP address following your Default Gateway. For example, if your Default Gateway is 12.3.4.5 the next sequential IP address would be 12.3.4.6. Using this example, your ping command should look like this:
Press the Enter key when you are finished.
5. If any IP address appears with the text "Destination host unreachable," that IP address is available. If you don't see any IP addresses showing "Destination host unreachable," repeat the ping command with the next sequential IP address, i.e. 12.3.4.7 and so on, until you find an available IP.
Once you've found an available IP address, you can change your Android device's IP address.
How to change the IP address on your Android device
1. Open your Android device's Wi-Fi settings. If you're not sure where to find it, open the Settings app, then tap on "Network & Internet," then tap on "Wi-Fi."
2. If you're already connected to the Wi-Fi network you want to use, tap and hold on the name of that network. When "Modify network" appears, tap on it. If this option doesn't appear initially, tap on the Wi-Fi network, tap "Forget network," and try the step one more time.
3. Tap "Advanced settings."
4. Use your finger or stylus to scroll down to IP Settings. Tap on "DCHP" and then tap "Static" in the drop-down menu that appears.
5. In their respective fields, type the available IP address that you discovered, your Default Gateway, and the two DNS servers. You can change the other settings as well, or leave them in their default states. When you're done, tap "Save."
Related coverage from Tech Reference :
How to get dark mode on your android phone or tablet in 2 ways, and help reduce eye strain, how to block a number on any android phone to stop receiving unwanted calls, how to add bitmoji to your android keyboard and use the personalized emoji library in texts and other apps, how to activate voice controls on your android device, and make google searches or open apps with your voice, how to add widgets on an android device and resize them on your home screen.
Insider Inc. receives a commission when you buy through our links.
NOW WATCH: Everything wrong with Android
- 100+ Years of Women In Tech
- The Tribal Digital Divide
How to Change the IP Address on Your Android
Tired of a random android ip here's how you can make your ip static.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/RyanDube-214359-8f50cb3133cd47c7ae1f3d4f09349f4e.JPG "how change ip address on android")
- University of Maine
- Switching from iOS
What to Know
- In Windows search bar , enter cmd . In Command Prompt , enter ipconfig/all . Mac: cmd + space > terminal. Ping for IP address.
- On Android: Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi . Press connected Wi-Fi > Modify network > Advanced options > Static .
- Configure network settings with Gateway IP and DNS address found in Command Prompt , and with IP address found during Ping .
This article explains how to switch your Android (9.0 and up) to a static IP address on your network. The directions below should apply in general, no matter who made your Android device: Samsung, Google, Huawei, Xiaomi, etc.
Find a Network IP for Your Android
Before you can set up your Android with a static IP, you'll need to find an available IP address on your network. You can do this from any computer that's connected to your home network.
On a Windows PC:
Click the Start menu .
Type cmd and click on the Command Prompt desktop app .
In the command prompt window, type the command ipconfig/all and press Enter .
What Your Results Mean
You'll see lots of information in the results, but you only need to be concerned with a few items.
- Default Gateway : This is the IP address of your home router and is typically the lowest IP address on the network. In the example above, this IP address is 10.0.0.1.
- IPv4 Address : This is the IP address of the device from which you've run the command. In the example above, this IP address is 10.0.0.158.
- DNS Servers : These are the servers your internet service provider (ISP) uses to look up domain names when you browse the internet.
Find a Free IP Address
You can find a free IP address on your network by typing a ping command starting from the router IP and working your way up.
If you see a response with ping time, it means there's a device on the network with that IP address. If the response reads " Destination host unreachable ," it means that IP address is available.
To perform the same ipconfig and ping commands on a Mac, open the terminal by pressing cmd + space and typing "terminal". In the Mac terminal, you can issue the same commands as described above.
Change the IP Address on Your Android
Now that you know what IP you can set your phone to, it's time to switch your phone from DHCP to a static IP.
Open Settings , under Network & internet, tap on Wi-Fi .
Press and hold on the connected Wi-Fi network. You'll see a menu pop-up. Tap Modify network .
Depending on your device's Android implementation, you may have to "Forget" the connected network before the press-and-hold trick will work. As an added step moving forward, re-enter the network password alongside the IP address changes.
You'll see the password change screen for that network. Tap Advanced options , and scroll down to the IP settings section. Tap DHCP and change the setting to Static .
Manually Configure Your Android's Network Settings
Once you've changed the IP Setting to Static, a form will appear that will allow you to manually configure all of your Android's network settings , including your Android's IP.
Since your IP will be static, you'll need to manually configure the rest of the network settings in this form as well.
- IP Address : The available IP address you discovered using the Ping command.
- Gateway : Enter the default Gateway IP address you recorded above.
- DNS 1 and DNS 2 : Type the IP addresses of the DNS servers you recorded above.
You can leave any other fields in this form set as default. When you're done changing the IP settings, tap Save .
Your Android will reconnect to your home network with its new IP. Now you can configure any software you're using to connect to your Android using its new, static IP address.
Your Android phone will retain this static IP even after a reboot. If you want to undo the static IP and set your Android back to DHCP, just follow the steps above, but in the Advanced Options menu, set the IP Settings option back to DHCP.
Why Change the IP Address on Your Android?
Changing your IP address on your Android is simple. There is a buried setting in your Android device that lets you switch from a dynamic IP (DHCP) to a static one.
However, there are several things you should do beforehand to make sure that you're choosing an available static IP address on your network.
There are plenty of important reasons you may need to set a static IP on your phone that doesn't change.
A few of the most common reasons include:
- Running a mobile web server
- Sharing mobile files with FTP server software
- Using your phone as a Wi-Fi camera
- Running a mobile media server on your phone
All of these uses require your mobile phone to have a fixed IP that you can easily configure in 3rd party software running on your computer or any other device on your network.
Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day
- How to Fix a 169 IP Address Error
- “Failed to Obtain IP Address”: How to Fix an IP Configuration Failure on Android
- How to Resolve Limited or No Connectivity Errors in Windows
- What Is DNS (Domain Name System)?
- What Is an IP Address?
- NETGEAR Default Password List
- How to Solve a Destination Host Unreachable Error
- What Is a Dynamic IP Address?
- How to Find the IP Address on a Mac
- How to Set Up Port Forwarding
- How to Change Your IP Address
- How to Find Your Default Gateway IP Address
- What Is a Static IP Address?
- What Is a Public IP Address? (and How to Find Yours)
- How to Change DNS Servers in Windows
- How to Fix Wi-Fi Authentication Problems on Android
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.
- Get Surfshark
- Surfshark One
Privacy from online tracking & data collecting with a secure connection.
Lightweight yet powerful security to protect your devices from harm.
Ad-free and completely private web searches to avoid tracking.
Detection of data breaches that involve your personal information.
- What is a VPN?
- VPN features
- VPN servers
Personal information removal from data brokers and big data companies.
- Media Center
- Cybersecurity
- All things VPN
- Internet censorship
- Entertainment
- Digital Quality of Life Index 2022
- Data breach world map
- Internet shutdowns tracker
- Government surveillance report
- Data vulnerability thermometer
Three easy ways to change the IP address on your Android device
Have you reached the point in your life where you’re overcome with the desire to change your IP (Internet Protocol) address on an Android device? It’s fine – it’s a natural urge for an internet user your age. Luckily, we can offer three different ways how to change your IP address on Android:
Method A: Changing your Android IP address manually
Method B: Changing your Android IP address with Tor
Method C: Changing your Android IP address with a VPN
Table of contents
How to change your android ip manually.
Changing your Android IP manually means setting it to a chosen static IP address (one that doesn’t change from connection to connection – we explain it later in the article) instead of getting a random one each time you connect.
Note that some of the options mentioned in the guide may be called differently on your device – that’s normal with Android devices.
- Open Settings (usually by tapping on the gear icon in the drag-down menu on the main screen).
- Tap Connections or Networks & Internet .
- Select Wi-Fi .
- Tap and hold your current Wi-Fi connection until the menu appears.
- Tap Manage network settings or a similar option on the menu.
- In the window that pops up, change IP settings from DHCP to Static .
- In the IP address field, enter a free, unused IP address (a guide to finding one can be found down the page).
- Tap Save .
That’s it – you have now changed your Android IP address manually!
How to change your Android IP with Tor
If you want to know how to change your IP on Android solely to mask your actual location, why not use Tor? It will only work for the browser and not the apps, but your IP will be changed – a few times during a longer browsing session!
- Find the Tor Browser on the Google Play store.
- Download and install the app.
- Every time you surf the internet over the Tor Browser, you’ll have a different IP!
Tor will change your IP address every time you browse – and even during the session if you browse for a longer time. However, it will not change your IP address for apps other than the Tor Browser .
How to change your Android IP with a VPN
If you want to change your IP to that of a specific country, instead of using Tor, use a VPN. With a VPN, you can choose the country your new IP will come from. It won’t be static (unless you connect to a static server), but you don’t have to do any manual work. And if you want a new IP to access content from a specific country, it will allow you to do that.
- Find a VPN app on our website or on the Google Play store .
- Subscribe , download, and log in.
- Click Connect .
- You have changed your IP!
What is an IP address?
An Internet protocol address is like your home address, but for your devices . Without an IP address, digital messages wouldn’t know where to go, and the internet wouldn’t exist. The internet uses IPv4 addresses , which come in a format like this: 172.16.254.1.
There are two types of IPs: dynamic and static.
- Dynamic IP (DHCP) is what internet service providers usually assign to users since they change with every connection, don’t need any manual setup, and can be easily reused.
- Static IP is harder to set up but has benefits like allowing a more stable connection, being something that can be bypassed , and used to access remote networks reliably.
If you’re researching how to change your IP on Android manually, you’re probably changing it from DHCP to static.
How to find an unused IP address
Here’s a guide for finding an IP address you can change your Android’s address to.
On a Windows PC:
- Open the Start menu or use the search bar.
- Select the Command prompt .
- In the Command prompt, type in ipconfig/all .
- Write down the addresses next to Default Gateway (the IP address of your router) and DNS Servers .
- Start looking for free IP addresses by typing in ping in the Command prompt followed by an address one number higher than the Default Gateway (so, if your default gateway is 172.16.254.1, try 172.16.254.2).
- Continue going up the ping list until you get the message Destination host unreachable . Write down that address – it’s free and unused!
- Press cmd and space at the same time.
- Type in terminal .
- Type in ipconfig/all in the terminal.
- Write down the addresses next to Default Gateway and DNS Servers .
- Start searching for unused IP addresses by typing ping followed by an address one number higher than the Default Gateway.
- Continue going up the ping list until you get the message Destination host unreachable . Write down that address – it’s a free one!
Should you change your IP address on Android: pros and cons
There are several reasons why you’d want to change your Android IP address – and maybe several why you wouldn’t. Here’s a table:
Which method of changing your Android IP address should you use?
Don’t know which method of changing your IP address works for you? It depends on what you want to do:
In short: Moving forward with changing your IP on Android
This article laid out not only how to change your IP on Android but also why. So, if you want to change it for reasons that don’t involve turning your Android device into a server or some other tool, you’re better off doing it with a VPN. It won’t require any manual work, it will allow you to change the IP’s location effortlessly, and it comes with such security benefits as an encrypted connection. So if you want to change your IP, why not start with Surfshark?
Can I change the IP address of my phone?
Yes, you can; you can use a VPN, Tor, or do it manually. The latter involves finding an unassigned IP address and then changing your current IP to the new one in your Wi-Fi connection’s settings.
How do you change an IP address?
The fastest and easiest way to change your IP address is to get a VPN and connect to a VPN server.
Does a VPN change your IP?
Yes: While you’re connected to a VPN server, the world sees the server’s IP, not yours.
What happens if I change my IP address?
Any website or service that records your IP address will record the new one; similarly, any service that detects your location based on your IP will use the new IP for that purpose.
This means that, if you lived in London and connected to a VPN server located in Germany to change your IP address, online services would think that you’re connecting from Germany.
Rate and share this article
Hand picked related articles
How do i hide my ip address.
How to change your location: VPNs, proxies, Tor
Does Incognito mode hide your IP address? | No, here’s why
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
VPN deal that Rocks
This website uses cookies. To learn more, visit our Privacy Policy .
How to Change IP Address on Your Android Phone or iPhone
The web is everyone’s go-to space for communication, e-commerce, entertainment, and learning thanks to portable computers and mobile phones providing easy access to it. While there are many things you can do online, the virtual environment is not always safe. Cybercriminals might be lurking and ready to steal your credentials or valuable information. On a positive note, there are many things you can do to shield yourself from cyberattacks . For instance, you can opt to change the IP address for your gadget.
Interested in why you should do it and how? You have come to the right place because we will teach you more about an IP address. Moreover, the various methods you can use to change or hide it are outlined in this guide.
What Is an IP Address?
Let’s discuss it in layman’s terms first. Think of your neighborhood and the exact place where you live. The former is like the internet, while the latter is your IP address. This is because the IP or Internet Protocol Address is a unique identifier for hardware or a device that is connected to a network. Furthermore, it usually comes in a numeric Internet Protocol Version 4 (iPv4) or seldomly in the alphanumeric iPv6 configuration. For example, 172.168.255.1 and 2001:db8::ff00:57:8726, respectively.
When it comes to mobile phones, there are two types of IP addresses you should be familiar with: dynamic and static. The dynamic IP address, as the name implies, changes each time you re-establish a network connection. The keyword here is temporary because your connection will only be active for a certain amount of time. This type of IP address is commonly used in public Wi-Fi networks like those on cafes where you are given a unique user and login codes alongside the IP address. With regard to a static IP address, it does not change when you reconnect to the internet. Also, this can be configured on your own or via your ISP.
Why Change IP Address?
There are many reasons why you should or might want to change your IP address. Furthermore, they are most likely related to online security and accessibility, like for many mobile phone users. The three most common reasons below could also be the best advantages of switching IP addresses:
To Avoid Being Tracked
As much as an IP address is like a home address, it can be used to determine your physical location. For instance, cybercriminals might need it for their phishing schemes, authorities for censorship, and websites and apps for analyzing where online visits, clicks, or traffic originates.
Also Read: How to Tell if Your Phone Is Tapped and Being Tracked
To Become Anonymous Online
Sometimes, an IP address can already be associated with who you are. For example, you have provided your fixed IP address for office internet access or any other purpose in the past. As a result, your IT personnel or that specific person you shared it with already knows it is yours. To make it hard to identify you, a regular change of IP address will help.
To Bypass Blocked Websites
Website blocking prevents certain IP addresses from accessing a whole webpage or just a portion of its content. Also, the restriction can be region-based. When you change your IP address, you will be able to bypass blocked and region-locked content and services. This is a common scenario in countries that censor even the most popular pages. For instance, news, social media, and streaming services.
Are There Risks In Changing an IP Address?
To answer this straightforward, there are no serious risks to your mobile phone when the IP address is changed. On the other hand, you and your device’s security might be compromised if the method or service you rely on is not safe. For example, you used a website or app that gets your private information without you knowing or one that has malware. This is why it is important to know the various methods so you can choose well, convenience- and safety-wise.
How to Change IP Address on a Mobile Phone?
There is more than one method to change the IP address on Android phones and iPhones. In this guide, you will learn the best ways that many other mobile device users also try. Additionally, you will find most methods simple and easy to do, even if you are not an expert with gadgets.
1. Unplug and Restart Router
Your home router assigns dynamic IP addresses each time it establishes a connection, so just reboot it to repeat the process. As a result, you get a different IP address for your Android phone or iPhone. Rebooting is one of the first methods to try because it is quick to do.
Here are universal instructions for resetting a Wi-Fi router:
1. Long press on the Power On/Off button. 2. Release the button once the indicator light switches off. 3. Remove the router’s plug carefully from the wall or floor socket. 4. Plug the unit again after five to 10 seconds. 5. Hold the router’s power button until the lights switch on. 6. Scan for and connect to the Wi-Fi network using your mobile phone.
2. Make a Change IP Address Request for Router (iPhones Only)
If you are an iPhone user, you can opt not to reboot or restart the router to make it reassign or change the IP address. In fact, it is possible to request the router to give your device a dynamic IP address again through your iPhone’s settings menu.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Launch the Settings menu from the iPhone’s home screen. 2. Click on Wi-Fi among the options. 3. Look for the active Wi-Fi network you are typically using. 4. Tap the round icon with an “i” beside it. 5. On the Wi-Fi network information page, click on the Renew Lease option.
6. Confirm the action from the pop-up window.
3. Forget Network
Making the mobile device forget the network works the same as the previously discussed method. Furthermore, it can be done on Android phones and iPhones. Consequently, the gadget gets a new dynamic address once it re-establishes a new connection with the network. Below are the methods for mobile phones to forget a network:
1. Head over to your smartphone’s Settings menu. 2. Click on Connections afterward. 3. Select Wi-Fi among the options. 4. Choose the Wi-Fi network your device is connected to and tap on its cog icon.
5. Click on the Forget icon on the bottom of the screen. 6. Switch the Wi-Fi slider off then on again. 7. Once the forgotten network is detected, sign in using your credentials.
1. Open Settings from the iPhone’s home interface. 2. Click on Wi-Fi afterward. 3. Tap the round “i” icon beside the network to be forgotten. 4. Click on Forget This Network.
5. Tap Forget on the next prompt to finalize the action.
In case you encounter network issues once you reconnect or your mobile device does not detect the network, reset network settings instead. The process clears existing configurations but fixes most problems regarding Wi-Fi and mobile networks. Also, remember to back up your network credentials beforehand.
4. Assign Static IP
If you are using a dynamic IP address from your home Wi-Fi router, you might want to switch to a static IP address instead. Assigning the latter type of IP address is possible through the Android phone or iPhone’s network settings. Below are the steps on how to use a fixed IP address:
1. Go to your app dashboard from the home screen. 2. Click on the Settings icon from the dashboard. 3. Tap Connections or Wireless & Networks. 4. Click on Wi-Fi from the available options afterward. 5. Tap the cog icon for or long-press on the Wi-Fi network name you usually connect to. 6. Select Advanced or Modify Network from the next page. 7. Under IP Settings, click on the drop-down arrow beside DHCP, then select Static.
8. Make the last digits of the IP address any number between 1 and 225. 9. Click Save to finalize the setting. 10. Try a different number if the digit you chose did not work. *A combination of digits not working in Step 8 just means that the IP address is already taken by another connected device.
1. Click on the Settings icon from your iPhone’s home screen. 2. Select Wi-Fi afterward. 3. Tap the specific Wi-Fi network you want to connect to. 4. Select the Configure IPv4 option on the page.
5. Tick Manual when the checkmark is on Automatic. 6. Enter your new Static IP in iPv4 or numeric configuration on the IP address field at the bottom of the screen.
5. Use Virtual Private Network
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that can connect your Android phone or iPhone securely to a public Wi-Fi network. To elaborate, it hides your IP address by turning it into the VPN’s IP address that is detected by the network and encrypted. This is to protect your personal information and credentials from being stolen online. Furthermore, VPNs nowadays come in the form of apps that you can download from the Google Play Store or App Store.
In this guide, let us discuss two of the best VPN for Android and iOS devices, NordVPN and PureVPN , and how to use them to change the IP address. Both apps are free to download but will require you to pay a monthly fee to access the full service. Follow the instructions below:
Via NordVPN
1. Subscribe to the service through the NordVPN Checkout Page . 2. Download and install the NordVPN app on your Android phone or iPhone. 3. Sign in to your account on the app afterward. 4. Select your country of choice to switch to the VPN IP address associated with that region. 5. You have a new IP address afterward, so you can start surfing the web.
Download from Google Play Store
Download from the App Store
Via PureVPN
1. Avail the trial or subscription from the PureVPN Order Page . 2. Download and install the PureVPN app from the Google Play Store or App Store. 3. Launch the app on your mobile phone afterward. 4. Login using the email address and password you used for the subscription account. 5. Click on the central button on the app’s home interface to start a connection with a new IP address.
6. Use Tor Browser (Android Only)
Tor is a browser that can lend your device its IP addresses so you can browse websites securely and access blocked pages. It supports data encryption, but not the two-way type. To explain, only the information sent from your gadget to the Tor network is protected. Despite this, it is used by many to mask or change the IP address on a computer.
There is a way to use Tor Browser on a mobile phone and that is through the Orbot: Tor app. Note that it is only applicable to Android devices for now.
Here is how to use Orbot: Tor:
1. Download the Orbot: Tor app from the Google Play Store. 2. Install it on your Android phone afterward. 3. Set it to your preferred language as prompted. 4. Read the Terms & Conditions and proceed if all that is stated is fine with you. 5. Choose the pop-up option that lets you continue without Superuser access. *Superuser access requires you to root your Android phone , which compromises device safety and voids warranty. 6. Remember or jot down the Orbot-compatible browsers from the list that will appear on the screen. 7. Tap Next or Continue until the Finish button appears. 8. Once taken back to the Orbot app home interface, click the power or start/stop icon to activate it.
9. Install your browser of choice which you have taken note of from the list. 10. Your IP address will be masked with a Tor IP address, so you can surf the web on the new browser app safely.
Also Read: Failed to Obtain IP Address Error: How to Fix It on Android
7. Contact Internet Service Provider
If you do not want to change your IP address on your own and want the experts to do it, contact your ISP. In fact, most if not all ISPs allow it but have rules and limitations on reissuing dynamic IP addresses or requesting for a static one.
If you just want to change the dynamic IP address, though, it might not be worth the time because what will be assigned to you will also change. In fact, the better option to take is to request a static IP address.
As you request for a static IP address, you will be asked for your current IP address and other information, so have the former written down on a piece of paper. Moreover, the service will come at a price so make sure you have the budget for this.
Out of all the methods discussed in this guide, you might be wondering which one is the best to try. If you ask us, our answer would depend on two factors: simplicity and safety. For the former, it is the router change IP address methods that can be done from within the settings of your Android phone or iPhone. In terms of the latter, it is VPN that is the most effective. Alternatively, you can test everything to know what works well for your device. After all, this is the best way to evaluate every technique you find online.
- Accessories
- Buying Guides
- Why Can8217t I Post Multiple Pictures on Instagram Problem Solved
- iPhone Alarm Not Going Off Not Working 11 Easy Fixes
Related Post
Why can’t i post multiple pictures on instagram [problem solved], 9 best fixes when move to ios is not working, how to change airdrop name in a few easy steps, how to change minecraft username (ultimate guide), genshin impact elements: status effects, reactions, resonance, all minecraft pickaxe enchantments ranked [best to worst].
How to change the IP address of an Android phone or device
On the Internet, your IP address is similar to a postal address. It uniquely identifies where you are so that information can be sent to you. Your IP address can change depending on what network you're using to connect. You can also change it, within certain limitations, if desired.
If you want to change your IP address on an Android device, follow these instructions.
- The basics.
- Change the local IP address of your Android device.
- Change the public IP address of your Android device.
- Change your device's IP address on a mobile network.
Before reading any of the below information, you need to be aware of some network basics.
- Know the difference between a static IP address and a dynamic IP address . See each link for additional information about these terms.
- When on the Internet , it is up to your ISP (Internet service provider) to assign and give you your network address seen by the Internet. When on a LAN (local area network) or WAN (wide area network), the home or corporate router assigns the IP addresses.
- If you're planning on designating or using a static IP address, be aware of how IP address ranges are handled and be familiar with the netmask . See each of these links for additional information.
Change the local IP address of your Android device
Your local IP address is tied to your computer's wireless network . By default, a home router uses DHCP to assign an IP address to each device that connects to your network. Each IP address assigned by your router uses NAT to translate the internal network IP to the ISP assigned IP address.
You can change your Android local IP address by connecting your router and adjusting the router settings for your Android device. For example, you can assign a static IP to your Android device, choose the option to re-assign the address, or remove the device and be assigned a new address.
- How to adjust the settings of a home router.
Some routers may re-assign your Android device a new IP address if rebooted. If you don't want to adjust your router settings, try unplugging the power to the router for a few minutes and then plug the power back into the router.
These steps only change the IP address of your Android device on your local network. Steps for changing your public IP address (external to your local network) are mentioned below.
Change the public IP address of your Android device
Before proceeding, it's good to know your device's public IP to verify its changes. You can do this by doing a Google search on "What's my IP address?" The result is your public IP.
To change the public IP address requires that the IP address assigned by your ISP changes. Although not always possible, suggestions on how to change your routers public IP address in the link below. If these steps do not help, you can hide your IP address behind a VPN by following the steps in the following section.
- How do I change my IP address?
Hide your public IP address behind a VPN
A VPN (virtual private network) allows any device including an Android device to hide behind one of the VPN's IP address. In other words, connecting to a website or anything on the Internet, your IP is the VPN IP address and not your public IP address. To install a VPN on your Android device, follow the steps below.
- Visit the Google Play Store and download the free app called PureVPN.
- After you install the app, open it , and sign up for an account .
You can use your Facebook or Google account to sign into PureVPN.
- Once you've verified your account, open PureVPN and click the green Quick connect button in the center of the screen.
- Once you've connected, your public IP address is changed.
To change your public IP address again, disconnect and reconnect to PureVPN.
Change your device's IP address on a mobile network
There is no need to change your devices IP address on a mobile network because mobile networks use DHCP to assign IP addresses, so they change frequently as is. However, if you're also concerned about assigned mobile network IP addresses, choose to connect to the Internet using a VPN app, as mentioned in the above suggestions.
Related information
- How to determine the IP address of a computer or website.
- How to find the physical location of an IP address.
- How to fix an IP conflict.
- See the IP definition for further information about this term and related links.
- Network and network card help and support.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
There are several ways to change your IP address, including unplugging your modem, using a different Internet connection, using a proxy server and contacting your Internet service provider.
The simplest way to determine a computer’s IP address is to use a website such as What Is My IP Address that retrieves your IP address and displays it for you. There are also various manual methods to determine a computer’s IP address.
You may hear the term IP address as it relates to online activity. Learn how to locate your IP address or someone else’s IP address when necessary. A common type of IP address is known as an IPv4 address. This IP address has four three-digi...
Click Settings. Select Connections. Click Wi-Fi. Select the network you're on currently. Click Advanced. Select either DHCP or Static. How to
How to Change Your IP Address of Android Phone · Go to your Android Settings · Tap Wireless & Networks · Go to the Wi-Fi section · Tap & hold the Wi
How do I change my IP address in Android OS? · Tap the Settings app. · Tap Wi-Fi. · Touch and hold the network that you want to set the IP address for. · Tap Manage
ExpressVPN exclusive offer, save 49% or try it 100% risk-free!https://www.vpnmentor.com/yt/expressvpn/?target=yt363&loc=tfd/ If you want
2. Change the IP address on Your Android Mobile Phone · Find the IP Settings section. You may have to scroll down. · By default, your IP Settings must be set to
How to change the IP address on your Android device · 1. Open your Android device's Wi-Fi settings. · 2. If you're already connected to the Wi-Fi
Change the IP Address on Your Android · Open Settings, under Network & internet, tap on Wi-Fi. · Press and hold on the connected Wi-Fi network.
How to change your Android IP manually · Open Settings (usually by tapping on the gear icon in the drag-down menu on the main screen). · Tap Connections or
The only way to permanently change your Android's wifi IP address is to modify the DHCP server settings on every network you control, and only connect to
3. Tap Connections or Wireless & Networks. 4. Click on Wi-Fi from the available options afterward. 5. Tap the cog icon for or long-press on the Wi-Fi network
You can change your Android local IP address by connecting your router and adjusting the router settings for your Android device. For example