How to Change Your IP Address: 7 Effective Methods

An IP address acts as your digital identity on the internet. It is necessary to connect to websites and services. To stay anonymous online, avoid tracking, or unlock geo-blocked websites, you want or need to change your IP address sometimes. And in this comprehensive guide, we will show 7 methods to make it. You can choose one that suits your case. The content will cover:

• What an IP address is and why change it
• Legal & security considerations
• Different ways to change your IP address (VPN, Proxy, Tor, etc.)
• How to change your IP on Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone
• How to check if your IP has changed

What Is an IP Address?

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique identifier your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigned to your device. It helps websites, apps, and services identify your location and network, essential for correct connections.

There are 6 common types of IP addresses according to the different features:

• Public IP (External) – Assigned by your ISP and used to communicate with websites.
• Private IP (Internal) – Used within your local network (WiFi/LAN).
• IPv4 IP - Most common, uses 32-bit format.
• IPv6 IP - Newer protocol, uses 128-bit format.
• Dynamic IP - Changes periodically.
• Static IP - Fixed & unchanging).

Why Change Your IP Address?

Protect Privacy – Hide your real location from websites & hackers.

Bypass Geo-Restrictions – Access Netflix, YouTube, or websites blocked in your country.

Avoid Bans & Restrictions – Some websites block IPs after multiple failed logins or spam detection.

Fix Network Issues – Changing IP can resolve connection problems or ISP throttling.

Is Changing Your IP Address Legal?

Yes, it’s legal in most countries if done for privacy or security reasons. Illegal in some cases if used for fraud, hacking, or bypassing government censorship.

Always follow your local laws when changing your IP.

7 Methods to Change Your IP Address

Method 1. Restart Your Modem/Router (Dynamic IP Users Only)

One of the simplest ways to change your IP address is to restart your modem or router.  Many ISPs assign dynamic IP addresses, meaning your IP can change when you restart your router.

How to Change Your IP by Restarting Your Router:

1. Turn off your modem/router for 5-10 minutes (some ISPs require up to 24 hours)

2. Restart your modem/router and check if your IP changed

3. If the IP is still the same, try disconnecting for a longer period

Method 2. Use a VPN (Best for Privacy & Security)

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) hides your real IP by routing your traffic through a secure server in another location.

How to Change Your IP with a VPN:

1. Download & install a VPN app

2. Open the app and connect to a server in your preferred country

3. Your IP address will change instantly

Method 3. Use a Proxy Server

A proxy server routes your traffic through another IP, similar to a VPN but without encryption.

How to Change Your IP with a Proxy:

1. Choose a reputable provider offering the proxy type and a free trial(so that you can ensure its effectiveness)

2. Register an account and buy the proxy service as you need

3. Configure it on your device/system/application(here is a step-by-step blog for your setup: What is the Meaning of “Configure Proxy” & How to Do)

Method 4. Use a Mobile Network

If your WiFi network is blocked, switching to mobile data (4G/5G) can provide a new IP address.

How to Change IP by Using Mobile Data:

1. Turn off WiFi and switch to mobile data

2. Restart your browser or device

3. Your public IP will change

Method 5. Use Tor Browser

Tor (The Onion Router) routes your connection through multiple encrypted layers, hiding your IP completely.

How to Change IP with Tor:

1. Download Tor Browser

2. Open Tor and browse anonymously

3. Your IP will appear as a Tor exit node

Method 6. Request a New IP from Your ISP (For Static IPs)

If your ISP has given you a static IP, you may need to request a manual IP change.

How to Ask Your ISP for a New IP:

1. Contact your internet provider’s support team

2. Ask for a new dynamic IP or static IP change

3. Some ISPs may charge a small fee for this service

How to Change IP Address on Windows, Mac, Android & iPhone

Windows (Using VPN or Proxy)

1. Install a VPN app or configure your proxy IP

2. Connect to a different country

3. Your IP will change instantly

Mac (Using VPN or Network Settings)

1. Go to System Preferences > Network

2. Choose Advanced > TCP/IP > Renew DHCP Lease

3. Or use a Mac-compatible VPN

Android & iPhone (Using VPN or Mobile Data)

1. Install a VPN from Play Store/App Store

2. Connect to a server in another country

3. Your mobile IP will change

For iPhone, here is a detailed guideline: How To Change IP Address On iPhone

How to Check If Your IP Address Has Changed

After using any of the above methods, verify your new IP by visiting:

• WhatIsMyIP
• IPInfo.io
• WhoerIP

If your IP is different, the method worked! 

Conclusion

Changing your IP address can significantly enhance your online experience, and each method has its advantages. 

• Best Overall: Use a VPN
• Quickest Free Method: Restart your router (for dynamic IPs)
• Best for Anonymity: Use Tor Browser
• Best for Unblocking Websites: Use a Proxy Server (especially our residential proxies for optimal performance)

To effectively manage IP changes, consider using residential and datacenter proxies. Residential proxies offer IP addresses from real devices, ensuring you can access content without detection, while datacenter proxies provide fast and flexible connections ideal for various online tasks. Explore our proxy service for fast, secure IP changes, and unlock the full potential of your online activities!