How to Hide My IP Address in 2024 (Free & Paid Methods)

There are many ways to hide your IP address, but not all of them are safe or effective. Some put your privacy and security at greater risk, while others can considerably slow your speeds. I tested several ways to hide your IP address and found 6 methods that work reliably. The key is to find what works best for your specific situation.

The easiest and safest method is to use a VPN (virtual private network). It’s a simple app that hides your IP address with one click. Plus, it encrypts your connection and doesn’t significantly slow your speeds as some of the other options do.

ExpressVPN is my top pick for hiding your IP address. It gives you a choice of IPs from 105 countries and can even disguise the fact that you’re using a VPN. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test out its IP-hiding abilities risk-free. If you’re not impressed, you can claim a full refund. Editors' Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.

Hide Your IP With ExpressVPN >>

Best Ways to Hide Your IP in %%currerntyear%%

1. Use a VPN — The Easiest, Most Secure Way to Hide Your IP

A VPN masks your IP address by routing your internet traffic through a remote server. At the same time, it encrypts your data, providing a high level of security and privacy during activities like browsing, torrenting, streaming, and gaming. VPNs are also really easy to use and can give you more freedom in your online capabilities.

Reputable VPNs offer certain essential security features, like a kill switch and leak protection. This prevents your real IP address and online activities from being exposed if the VPN connection drops. Many top VPNs also block ads, malware, and trackers to ensure a safe and smooth browsing experience.

1. ExpressVPN — Automatic Obfuscation to Beat Tough Firewalls and Change Your Location

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Tested June 2024

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN has built-in obfuscation on every server, which can hide your IP address from even the toughest firewalls. This is why it’s known to work reliably in China, too. It can also evade VPN or media blocks on restrictive networks, like those in schools and libraries. And with IP servers in 105 countries, it can reliably access streaming sites, like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more from anywhere. It even has a built-in IP checker in the settings.

On the ExpressVPN app, click the burger menu > Help & Support > IP Address Checker

Where most VPNs use standard protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN, ExpressVPN built its exclusive Lightway from scratch to exclude unnecessary code. That’s partly why, in all my years of testing services, ExpressVPN has consistently proven to be the fastest. Lightway offers lightweight connections and even saves battery on mobile devices.

2. CyberGhost — NoSpy Servers Hide Your IP Address and Keep Your Connection Private

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost is a simple and user-friendly VPN that offers NoSpy servers with Romanian IPs for extra security. Its kill switch and leak protection are built-in, so you don’t have to activate them. There are other specialized servers neatly categorized for downloading, streaming, and gaming. It also offers a one-click malicious content blocker that worked well in my tests, but it’s less effective than those offered by ExpressVPN and PIA.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Hide Your IP Address With Customizable Security Options

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA offers a huge choice of IPs with its enormous network of 29,650 servers in 91 countries. It also gives you heaps of adjustable features like Multi-hop. This feature sends your data through a VPN server as well as a proxy, doubling your protection. It also has an Advanced Kill Switch — in my tests, it blocked my internet traffic until I connected to the VPN. For a small additional fee, you can even buy your own exclusive dedicated IP that only you can use.

How to Hide Your IP With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps

1. Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because it offers servers in 105 countries, making it easy to hide your IP address.
2. Connect to a server. Choose a location where you want to get an IP from. For example, if you need a US IP, you need to connect to a US server.
3. Start browsing with a new IP. Your real IP is hidden, and your connection is now protected from prying eyes.

2. Connect to a Proxy Server — Good for Switching IPs, but Doesn’t Encrypt Your Data

Proxy servers act as intermediaries between your computer and the internet, hiding your IP address behind theirs. This method is suitable for changing your browsing location. However, unlike VPNs, proxies do not encrypt your data, so they are less secure.

As well as residential IPs, Oxylabs offers Datacenter and Mobile IP addresses

How to Hide Your IP With a Proxy in 3 Easy Steps

1. Choose a reliable proxy service. Not all proxies are safe, so make sure you select a reliable proxy service.
2. Configure your web browser or application. This ensures that you connect to the internet via the proxy server.
3. Start browsing. Your IP address will be hidden while your traffic routes through the proxy server's IP.

3. Use an IP Scrambler — Secure, but You May Need to Buy a Full Security Suite

IP scramblers dynamically change your IP address at set intervals. This constant change makes it difficult for trackers to monitor your online activities. The downside is that you usually can’t get a standalone IP scrambler. They often come as a package deal, so you’ll likely have to commit to buying a more comprehensive antivirus package.

Some VPNs offer this feature, which, combined with encryption, is a solid option for making your real IP address difficult to trace. One such VPN is Surfshark with its Rotating IP.

As well as encrypting your data, Surfshark can rotate your IP

4. Use the Tor Browser — Multiple Layers of Encryption, but Very Slow Speeds

Tor routes your internet traffic through multiple global servers, heavily encrypting your data at each step. While this provides a high degree of anonymity and security, the process significantly slows down your internet speed, making it limiting for streaming or downloading. Your IP is also vulnerable at the entry node, so I recommend using a reliable VPN for Tor.

The Tor Browser was originally built to privately access regular surface web sites

How to Hide Your IP With Tor in 3 Easy Steps

1. Download and install the Tor browser. I strongly recommend you only download Tor from the official Tor Project website.
2. Open the Tor browser. This will establish a connection to the Tor network.
3. Browse the internet. Tor hides your data behind several layers of encryption, and you also have the option to access the dark web.

5. Create a Hotspot on Your Smartphone — A Readily Available Solution, but Can Be Costly

Turn your smartphone into a hotspot to provide an alternative internet connection for your other devices, effectively hiding your original IP address. It can also be a solution when you’re struggling to get online on your desktop PC. This method might incur additional charges depending on your mobile data plan.

These screenshots are from an iPhone, but it's just as easy on Android devices

How to Hide Your IP With a Mobile Hotspot in 3 Easy Steps

1. Ensure your smartphone is active. You need a device with an active data plan. You can also boost your privacy by using a reliable VPN for Android or iOS.
2. Enable the mobile hotspot feature. This is usually in your smartphone’s settings.
3. Connect your device to the newly created hotspot. You are free to browse with your smartphone’s IP address.

6. Use Public WiFi — Mostly Free to Use, but Leaves Your Connection Vulnerable

Connecting to public WiFi networks can hide your real IP address but can expose you to potential security risks. Public WiFi often lacks strong security measures, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. Especially since many hotspots at cafes, libraries, or airports aren’t password-protected. Fortunately, you can safely auto-join any public WiFi hotspot with the protection of a reliable VPN.

The padlock icons indicate that these hotspots are password-protected

Editors' Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.

4 Other (Not So Great) Ways to Change Your IP Address

1. Unplug Your Modem

Unplug your modem for a few minutes and then reconnect it. This will sometimes result in your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigning a new IP to your connection. However, this method's effectiveness varies and isn’t consistently reliable for those needing a new IP.

2. Use a Network Address Translation (NAT) Firewall

A NAT firewall allows multiple devices to connect to the internet using one IP. While this method can change how external servers see your IP, it doesn't offer the same level of privacy and security as more robust solutions like VPNs.

3. Get Your ISP to Change it For You

Some ISPs may be willing to change your IP address upon request. This approach requires you to contact your ISP's customer service and explain why you need a new IP. The process can be time-consuming, and not all ISPs offer the service.

4. Renew Your Private IP

Changing your private IP address can be done easily through your computer's network settings. However, this method only changes the IP address of your device on your local network and does not affect your public IP address as seen on the internet.

On Windows

1. Use Command Prompt. Open Command Prompt and type “ipconfig /release” to release your current IP configuration.
2. Get a new IP. Type “ipconfig /renew” to obtain a new IP address from your router.

On macOS

1. Open System Preferences. Go to the Network section.
2. Select your network connection. Click Advanced.
3. Go to the TCP/IP tab. Click on Renew DHCP Lease to get a new IP address.

FAQs About Hiding Your IP Address

Is it legal to hide my IP address?

Yes, it is legal to hide your IP address in most countries. Hiding your IP address is a common practice for enhancing online privacy and security. However, the intention behind hiding your IP address should not involve illegal activities. Some governments have strict regulations on internet use, so it's crucial to understand the laws in your region.

Can I hide my IP address on Chrome, Safari, and Opera?

You can hide your IP address on Chrome, Safari, and Opera with browser extensions or a VPN. Most VPNs offer browser extensions that allow you to hide your IP directly within the browser. This ensures your online activities are safeguarded. However, remember that other apps on your device might still reveal your real IP unless you use a VPN that covers all traffic.

How do I hide my IP address on iPhone and Android?

On iPhone and Android, you can hide your IP address by using a VPN app. Download a reputable VPN app, set it up, and turn it on. This will route all your mobile data or Wi-Fi through a server in a location of your choice, effectively hiding your real IP address. Ensure the VPN is active before engaging in any sensitive activities online.

How can I check if my IP is really hidden?

You can use an online IP checker tool to check if your IP is hidden. After enabling your method of hiding your IP, use an IP checker to see if your public IP address has changed from your real one. If it shows a different IP, typically one associated with your VPN or proxy server, your IP is successfully hidden. Regular checks are advisable to ensure continuous privacy.

Can I hide my IP from my ISP?

Hiding your IP address from your ISP isn’t possible. Your ISP issues your IP, so it’s not possible to hide it from them; it would be like hiding your letter box from your mail carrier. However, using a VPN can effectively mask your online activities from your ISP. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, so your ISP can’t monitor your activities. However, your ISP can still detect the use of a VPN.

Does Incognito Mode hide my IP address?

Incognito Mode does not hide your IP address. For more reliable privacy protection, using a VPN in conjunction with Incognito Mode is recommended to hide your IP and your browsing history. Incognito only prevents your browser from storing browsing history, cookies, and site data. Your IP address remains visible to websites, your ISP, and any third-party trackers.

Can I hide my IP for free?

You can hide your IP using a free VPN, but I don’t recommend it. Investing in a reputable paid VPN service is advised for comprehensive protection and better performance. Free VPNs often have limitations such as data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server options. Additionally, the reliability and security provided by free services can be questionable.

Hide Your IP Address in Minutes

It’s important to choose a reliable method for hiding your IP address, as some are more risky and unreliable than others. In particular, you don’t want to use a technique that makes your data visible to unwanted third parties or significantly slows your internet speeds.

Therefore, I tested a number of ways for hiding IPs so I could present those that work well. I included a few others that may be suitable for some uses.

My favorite method for hiding IPs is a VPN. A VPN like ExpressVPN is easy to use, has fast speeds, and can even disguise your use of a VPN with obfuscation. Plus, it has a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try ExpressVPN without risk. If you find it’s not for you, then you can claim a full refund.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to hide your IP...

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