What is my IP address and why do I need one?
Your IP address is 38.107.191.81 and a reverse lookup on your IP shows you live in Los Angeles, CA Array with an area code of (323).
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Every device (computer, pda, game pads, etc) all require an address, much like a mailing address. This IP address is unique and is usually assigned to you by your internet service provider.
However, if your computer is off for a period of time, your internet service provider (ISP) may assign your address to someone else and provide you with a new address - this all happens automagically and chances are, you'll never know about it.
What is my IP address when my MAC changes? Everything connecting to the internet has a media access control address (MAC address). This MAC is tied to your IP address and is what your internet service provider uses to track you through multiple addresses. They may assign you many different IP addresses, but your MAC never changes (by itself).
You can change your MAC. For example, your router (the device that connects your computer to the internet) may have an option to manually enter a MAC address. Change the MAC and your ISP will assign you a new IP (again, it happens automagically).
Can someone else find out what my IP address is?
Absolutely, no problem, as we demonstrated above. Unless you are using a proxy or hiding (we go into detail about this, see our page on hiding). In fact, there are some sites that try to scare you by telling you they have your IP address and that you are exposed. Nothing but a scare tactic!
Your IP address can be traced back to you but without a court order, the trace is limited to city. However, a person, or website, can lead you to believe that they know exactly where you live by showing you your city and area code, leaving you to imply that they know more.
What is my IP address when I'm not at home?
Your IP address does not follow you around.