How to Find Your Public IP Address
A public IP (Internet Protocol) address assigned by an ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a globally unique IP address. It can be static or dynamic. A static IP address generally stays the same over long periods, whereas a dynamic IP address will change frequently. To learn more about IP Addresses in general, please visit the article: Understanding IP Addresses.
- What is a Public IP Address Used For?
- What is the Difference Between a Public and Private IP Address?
- How to Find Your Public IP Address
- Summary
What is a Public IP Address Used For?
Often, several computers utilize a single internet connection. These computers all share a single public IP address. A router connects the group of computers to the internet. It identifies each computer on the network with a locally unique IP address. Each machine's IP address on this local area network (LAN) cannot be used to communicate with computers on a different LAN elsewhere. Instead, the public IP address is used to communicate from one LAN across the internet to another LAN.
What is the Difference Between a Public and Private IP Address?
A public IP address is visible to other devices on the network. In contrast, a private IP address is only visible within the local network. Public IPs are used for online communication, while private IPs are used for local communication.
How to Find Your Public IP Address
Occasionally, you will need to locate your public IP address for configuration or troubleshooting purposes (for example, setting up remote access or port forwarding). However, take note of the potential risk of sharing your public IP address when providing services on the internet. Security measures are required (for example, using a proxy server or VPN, using your mobile network, etc.).
Follow the steps below to find your public IP address on the following devices:
Windows 10
- Open your preferred web browser app (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, etc.).
- On the web address bar, enter http://www.Bluehost.com/ip to know your public IP address.
Apple Device (Mac or iPhone)
- On your Apple device, open Safari.
- On the web address bar, enter http://www.Bluehost.com/ip to know your public IP address.
Android
- Open your preferred web browser app (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, etc.).
- On the web address bar, type in http://www.Bluehost.com/ip to know your public IP address.
Summary
Your public IP address is a unique address assigned by your ISP. It is used for online communication across different LANs. It can be static or dynamic. On the other hand, private IP addresses are only visible within the local network and are used for local communication. To quickly find your public IP address, go to http://www.Bluehost.com/ip.
If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us via Chat or Phone:
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You may also refer to our Knowledge Base articles to help answer common questions and guide you through various setup, configuration, and troubleshooting steps.