The guide explains the distinction between an Internal vs External IP Address.
A recurring query on the TROYPOINT website is “I’m using a VPN, but why doesn’t my IP Address change?”
Individuals who pose this query typically refer to their internal IP address, not their external one.
It’s essential to comprehend that Internet-connected devices manage two IP Addresses.
These are known as an internal IP address and an external IP address.
An internal IP address pertains to your home network while your external IP address is accessible via your Internet router.
Refer to the diagram below for a basic representation of a regular home network.
What is an External IP Address?
Most internet users are acquainted with an external IP address. This is the address assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), which is made public.
Put simply, this is the address of your router interface connected to the internet.
Whenever you access a website or use an Internet-connected application, your IP Address is typically logged along with your activity.
Your external IP address is directly linked to your Internet service account, making all your online activities traceable back to you.
It is essential to safeguard your external IP address from others, and one way to achieve this is by installing a virtual private network (VPN).
A VPN will alter your current external IP address by assigning a different one not associated with your Internet service account.
Refer to the VPN installation guides below for your specific device:
How to Install a VPN for Firestick, Fire TV, and Fire TV Cube
How to Install a VPN for Windows
How Do I Find My External IP Address?
Various methods are available to locate your external IP address. If you are using an Amazon Firestick, Fire TV, or Fire TV Cube, follow the screenshot guide below.
You can also perform this task using any web browser on your device.
You will notice that I found my external IP address with my VPN both turned on and off. This highlights the importance of having a VPN as it obscures your external IP address from your ISP, hackers, app developers, and others.
Finding Your External IP Address Tutorial
1. Install the Amazon Silk browser on your Firestick or Fire TV from the App Store and launch it.
2. Press the Options button on your remote (3 horizontal lines) to access the search bar.
3. Enter “dnsleaktest.com” in the search bar and hit enter.
4. Your external IP address will now appear (my VPN is turned off).
5. To change your external IP address, go back to the home screen and connect your VPN (if you have one installed). TROYPOINT recommends IPVanish due to their fast download speeds and zero log policy.
6. Go back to dnsleaktest.com and you will now notice a different external IP address appear.
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What is an Internal IP Address?
An internal IP address is also called a private address, as these are restricted to private networks.
Think of your internal IP address as a unique phone number for every internet-connected device within your network.
When using an internal IP address, a system can be identified within the Local Area Network (LAN). With an external IP address, a system can be located globally.
How to Find Your Internal IP Address
The process of locating your internal IP address differs based on the internet-connected device you are using.
Follow the screenshot tutorials below to learn how to find your internal IP address on some of the most popular devices.
Finding Your Internal IP Address on the Firestick/Fire TV
1. Hover over Settings and click on My Fire TV
2. Click About
3. Scroll down and hover over Network
That’s it! You will find your device’s internal IP address on the right under “IP Address”.
Finding Your Internal IP Address on Windows 10
1. Click the Windows Start icon on the bottom left, then click Settings.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. For wireless connections, click Wi-Fi on the left menu.
4. Click Hardware properties, which is right under the “Show available networks” option.
5. That’s it! Your internal IP address is the number that appears next to “IPv4 Address”.
Internal vs External IP Address – Conclusion
The main concept to take away when it comes to IP Addresses is that an external IP address is public, and an internal IP address is private.
Remember, if you wish to mask your external IP address from the public and stay anonymous, then setting up a VPN is the best option.
For more information about IPVanish including its pros, cons, and more, check out our unbiased review at this IPVanish Review.