IP Address

An IP address (Internet Protocol) is a string of numbers assigned to every device on a network so data packets reach the right destination. Every website you visit sees your public IP and can infer your approximate location and internet provider, which is used for tracking and geo-blocking ✕ Geo-blocking restricts online content based on the user's location. With a VPN that shows an IP address from another country, it can often be bypassed. More in the glossary → . There are two versions: the older IPv4 and the newer IPv6. To hide your IP you use a VPN ✕ A VPN routes your internet traffic through an encrypted external server. This hides your real IP address and stops third parties — like your provider or public Wi-Fi — from seeing what you do. More in the glossary → or proxy ✕ A proxy is an intermediary server that forwards your requests and hides your IP address. Unlike a VPN, it usually doesn't encrypt the traffic. More in the glossary → , so websites only see the intermediary server ✕ A server is a powerful computer that provides data or services to other devices — for example serving a website or storing your cloud files. More in the glossary → 's address. See the best VPN comparison.