Every device connected to a network needs a unique identifier to send and receive data. This numerical label is your IP address. Whether you're troubleshooting a dropped connection, setting up local file sharing, or configuring a game server, finding your computer's IP address takes just a few seconds once you know where to look.
Your machine actually has two different types of IP addresses: a private local address used by your home router, and a public address assigned by your internet service provider (ISP) that represents your home network to the outside world. Here's how to locate both on Windows, macOS, and Linux without digging through confusing system menus.
Finding Your Local IP Address on Windows
Windows gives you multiple paths to check your network configuration, ranging from quick command-line shortcuts to standard graphical settings menus.
Using the Command Prompt
The fastest way to view your network details on Windows 10 or Windows 11 is through the command line.
- Press the
Windowskey andRtogether to open the Run box. - Type
cmdand hit enter. - In the black window that pops up, type
ipconfigand press enter. - Scroll down to your active connection—look for Ethernet adapter if you're plugged in with a cable, or Wireless LAN adapter if you're on Wi-Fi.
- Find the line that says IPv4 Address. The numbers next to it (such as
192.168.1.15) are your local IP address.
Using Windows Settings
If you prefer using a mouse over typing commands, you can find the same information through the main Settings app.
- Open the Start menu and click Settings.
- Select Network & internet from the left sidebar.
- Click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on how you're connected.
- Click on your active network name to open its properties.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find your IPv4 address listed under properties.
Finding Your Local IP Address on macOS
Apple keeps network settings tucked inside System Settings. Whether you're using an iMac or a MacBook, finding your local network identifier takes just a few clicks.
Using System Settings
- Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
- Click Network in the sidebar.
- Select your active connection—either Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
- Click the Details button next to your connected network.
- Select TCP/IP from the menu on the left to see your IPv4 Address.
Using the Terminal
If you prefer the command line on macOS, you can use built-in tools to pull up your networking details instantly. Open the Terminal application and type:
ipconfig getifaddr en0
(Note: If you're on an older Mac or using a wired connection, your interface name might be en1 instead of en0.)
Finding Your Local IP Address on Linux
Linux distributions rely heavily on terminal commands for network management. Modern distributions use the iproute2 package to display interface details.
- Open your terminal application.
- Type
ip addr showand press enter. - Locate your active interface (usually starting with
eth0,enp3s0, orwlan0). - Look for the line starting with
inet, which displays your local IP address followed by a subnet mask.
If you just want a quick readout without scanning through interface cards, you can type hostname -I to output your active IP addresses immediately.
Finding Your Public IP Address
Your local IP address stays hidden behind your router. When websites talk to your computer, they see your public IP address. Because this address is assigned to your entire router rather than just your PC, you don't use operating system commands to find it.
The simplest method is to use a web browser. You can visit a dedicated network utility site like IETF or search engines like Google and type "what is my ip" into the search bar. Your public IP address will appear right at the top of the search results.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Network settings can occasionally play tricks on you. Keep these common pitfalls in mind when checking your network details:
- Checking the wrong adapter: If you have both Wi-Fi and an Ethernet cable plugged in, your PC will have two different local IP addresses. Make sure you're reading the adapter you're actively using.
- Confusing local and public addresses: If you try to give a friend your local address (
192.168.x.x) to connect to a game you're hosting, they won't be able to join. Local addresses only work inside your home network. - Dynamic IP changes: Most home routers use DHCP, which means your PC's local IP address can change after you restart your computer or router. If you need a permanent address for port forwarding, set up a static IP in your router settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between IPv4 and IPv6?
IPv4 is the older, standard format using four sets of numbers separated by periods. Because the world is running out of unique IPv4 addresses, newer systems use IPv6, which uses a much longer alphanumeric format separated by colons.
Why does my local IP address always start with 192.168?
Most home routers reserve specific ranges of numbers for private local networks under internet standards. The 192.168.x.x and 10.x.x.x ranges are non-routable on the public internet, meaning millions of homes can use the exact same numbers internally without causing conflicts.
Can my IP address reveal my exact home address?
No. Your public IP address can roughly indicate your general city or the headquarters of your internet service provider, but it cannot pinpoint your physical street address or apartment number.
How do I change my local IP address?
You can change your local IP address by accessing your router's administration panel and setting up a static DHCP reservation, or by manually assigning an IP address in your computer's network adapter properties.
