🔥 Public vs Private IP: Differences, Examples and How to Check Yours

Have you ever wondered if your IP address is public or private? Both are essential for your connectivity but have different functions, features, and risks. Understanding the difference between public and private IPs not only boosts your networking knowledge, but also helps you protect your privacy and optimize your devices.

In this guide, you'll learn what each type means, how to identify them, and how to use free tools like IPToolsWeb.io to instantly check which IP you're using.

What is an IP address?

An IP address (Internet Protocol) is a numeric sequence that uniquely identifies a device on a network. It can be local (inside your home or office) or global (visible on the Internet). Just like your house has a postal address, your device has an IP to send and receive data.

Main differences between public and private IPs

Internet visibility

A public IP is visible on the Internet and assigned by your provider. A private IP is internal, only visible within your local network (like your router, PC, or phone).

Address ranges

• 10.0.0.0 – 10.255.255.255
• 172.16.0.0 – 172.31.255.255
• 192.168.0.0 – 192.168.255.255

Who assigns it

Public IPs are assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Private IPs are assigned by your router or local system via DHCP.

Common uses

• Public IP: Browsing the internet, online gaming, hosting servers, or accessing devices from outside.
• Private IP: Communication between devices in your local network like printers, mobiles, or PCs.

What is a public IP?

Definition and examples

It’s the address that represents your network or device on the Internet. For example: 85.136.240.22

Advantages and disadvantages

• Advantages: Remote access, ideal for servers.
• Disadvantages: Higher exposure to cyberattacks if not protected.

What is a private IP?

Definition and examples

It's the address your device receives within the local network. For example: 192.168.1.10

Advantages and limitations

• Advantages: Security, as it’s not accessible from outside.
• Limitations: Cannot be accessed directly from the Internet.

Comparison table: Public vs Private IP

How to check which IP type you have right now

How to check with IPToolsWeb.io

With this free online tool you can instantly see your public IP, no installation needed.

Step-by-step usage example

1. Open https://iptoolsweb.io/en/ip.html
2. The site will automatically detect and display your IP.
3. You’ll see your approximate location, browser, and network type.

Can you change your public or private IP?

Change public IP

• Restarting your router (often dynamic).
• Connecting to a VPN (you get a new temporary IP).

Change private IP

• From your device’s network settings.
• Automatically (DHCP) or manually (static IP).

What are the risks if your public IP is visible?

An exposed IP can be a target for brute-force attacks, port scans, or denial of service (DDoS). That’s why it’s key to use firewalls and know which services you expose.

Practical cases and common scenarios

• Gaming: Opening ports and having a public IP helps you host matches.
• Remote work: Allows remote access with proper security.
• IoT: Cameras, thermostats, and other connected devices must be protected.

FAQs: Public vs Private IP

• Does my mobile have a public or private IP? Both. Public when online, private on WiFi.
• Can someone track me by my IP? They can learn your general area, but not your exact address.
• Is it better to have a static or dynamic IP? It depends: for servers, static is better. For most users, dynamic is enough.
• Does my IP change every day? If it’s dynamic, it can change after router restarts or per ISP policy.

Conclusion: Understanding your IP is protecting your connection

Your IP address is a key part of your digital life. Knowing if you’re using a public or private IP, and how to manage it, can make the difference between a secure or vulnerable connection. Check now at IPToolsWeb.io and instantly discover your IP and how to protect it.