How to Hide Your IP Address

To show websites a different public IP, route traffic through a service such as a VPN or proxy that uses its own exit address.

How it works

A VPN normally creates an encrypted connection to a VPN server, then websites see that server's public IP. A proxy can also relay some traffic, but its coverage and security properties differ. Tor uses multiple relays and is designed for a different threat model. None of these tools is a universal privacy guarantee: websites can still recognize accounts, browser fingerprints, or information you submit.

A VPN is usually the practical choice when you need applications to use a different public exit address. A browser proxy may apply only to browser traffic, while a corporate VPN may route only work resources. Check the scope before making assumptions about other apps.

Changing an IP is not the same as removing every identifying signal. Staying signed in, reusing a browser profile, or granting precise location permission can still provide a service with useful context.

Practical guidance

• Choose a service with a clear privacy policy and apps for the devices you use.
• Connect, then compare your public IP before and after using the service.
• Check whether IPv6, DNS, and browser WebRTC behavior match your privacy expectations.

Common question

Should I use a free proxy? Be cautious. You may not know who operates it, what it logs, or whether it modifies traffic.