How to check your computer’s IP address
In the digital age, knowing how to check your computer's IP address is an essential skill. Whether it is for network configuration, troubleshooting or remote access, it is crucial to know how to query IP addresses. This article will introduce in detail how to view IP addresses in different operating systems, and attach a structured data table to help you quickly master this skill.
1. What is an IP address?

IP address (Internet Protocol Address) is a unique identifier assigned to a network device for communication on the Internet or a local area network. It is divided into two formats: IPv4 and IPv6. IPv4 consists of four groups of numbers (such as 192.168.1.1), while IPv6 is longer (such as 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334).
2. How to check the IP address of the computer?
Here's how to check your IP address in different operating systems:
| operating system | Operation steps |
|---|---|
| Windows 10/11 | 1. Open the "Command Prompt" (Win+R, enter cmd) 2. Enter the command "ipconfig" 3. Find "IPv4 address" or "IPv6 address" |
| macOS | 1. Open System Preferences 2. Enter the "Network" option 3. Select the currently connected network and click "Advanced" 4. View the IP address in the "TCP/IP" tab |
| Linux | 1. Open the terminal 2. Enter the command "ifconfig" or "ip addr" 3. Find the "inet" or "inet6" field |
3. View IP address through graphical interface
In addition to the command line, you can also view the IP address through the graphical interface:
| operating system | Graphical interface operation |
|---|---|
| Windows | 1. Right-click the taskbar network icon 2. Select "Open Network and Internet Settings" 3. Enter the "Network and Sharing Center" 4. Click on the currently connected network to view "Details" |
| macOS | 1. Click the Wi-Fi icon on the top menu bar 2. Select "Network Preferences" 3. The currently connected IP address will be displayed directly. |
4. The difference between public IP and intranet IP
IP addresses are divided into public IP and intranet IP:
| Type | Features | View method |
|---|---|---|
| Public IP | The only one in the world for Internet communications | Visit a website such as “whatismyip.com” |
| Intranet IP | Used within LAN, such as 192.168.x.x | View via "ipconfig" or "ifconfig" command |
5. Frequently Asked Questions
1.Why did my IP address change?
Dynamic IP addresses are assigned by a DHCP server and may change periodically. If you need a fixed IP, you need to manually set a static IP.
2.Are IP address leaks risky?
Public IP leakage may reveal the approximate geographical location. It is recommended to use a VPN or proxy server to protect privacy.
3.How to hide IP address?
You can use a VPN, Tor browser, or proxy service to hide your real IP address.
6. Summary
Checking your computer's IP address is a simple but useful skill. Whether through the command line or graphical interface, Windows, macOS or Linux systems provide convenient query methods. Understanding the difference between public IP and intranet IP, and mastering basic privacy protection methods can help you use the network more safely.
If you need to know more about network configuration or encounter IP address-related issues, it is recommended to consult professional technicians or consult official documents.
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