Like a postal address that identifies you and where you live, an IP address is unique and allows you to identify a connected device or a local network. So here’s how to find it.
What does an IP address look like?
Before knowing your IP address, you still need to know what it looks like. This forms a set of four sets of numbers ranging from 1 to 255. So we can see IP addresses similar to 123.1.255.045 or even 100.145.187.111 for example. The idea here is to set an identifier number to allow a device connected to the Internet (smartphone, computer, connected speaker…) but also websites to be recognized on the network. In short, an IP address should allow them to be distinguished on the Internet.
What is the difference between a public and private IP address?
Another important point to note, the IP address of the Internet user is generally given by their ISP (Orange, Free, Bouygues Telecom, SFR…). The individual will then get two IP addresses. One is generic and usually for the router. The other is private and allows the router to identify every device on the network. Therefore, there are generally many private IP addresses based on the number of connected objects (computers, smartphones, TVs, etc.) in your home.
In order to be recognized on the web, it is the public IP address, i.e. the address given by your ISP to your router, which will be visible to others. She is the one who will ask you in case of need. It should be noted that CNIL considers this personal information, so it should not be disclosed to anyone, but only when necessary (set up remote work, remote intervention ..).
Be aware that cybercriminals who get your public IP address can use it to spy on you, download illegal content using your address, or even hack and take control of different devices in your home.
How do you know her?
There are two very simple ways to find out. The first is to go through your internet browser. Recommended by cyber security companies, website IPlocation.net It gives you the address automatically and can also give you the location of your city and the name of your ISP. Ditto for the site whatsmyip.com. It is generally recommended to use these two sites, beware of other sites that are often services intended to click ads.
For those who don’t want to go through the browser, it is possible to do so via your device settings.
On a Windows 10 PC, click on the search box on the taskbar and enter the three letters cmd. After pressing the Enter key, a black screen prompts you to fill out a command line, then type: ipconfig. Then look at the IPv4 address line and the numbers at the end, this is your address.
On Mac OSX, it’s even easier. Go to System Preferences, go to Network, the IP address is displayed.
For smartphones, iOS or Android, the IP address is often indicated when you tap on wifi for example.
