Every Internet-connected device has a unique Internet Protocol (IP) address. Among other things, IP addresses allow machines from other networks to connect with one another. Despite the fact that IP addresses are essential for all Internet-based activities, it’s usual for users to be unaware of their computer’s IP address or the purposes for which it can be used. Your life could suffer greatly if someone were to learn your IP address. They could attack your computer or send you spam. Read below for reasons you should know your IP address.
Prevent Identity Theft
Identity fraudsters are always searching for PII (personally identifiable information). PII is information that thieves could use to either directly steal from you or pose as you. Your Social Security number, contact information, mailing address, and birthdate can all be found here; these are all crucial pieces of information for identity thieves. A thief cannot directly obtain PII using your IP address because it is not PII. However, a hacker can find your ISP if they have access to your IP address. The ISP may then be persuaded to divulge any PII it possesses on you by means of a phishing attack.
Prevent Hacker
Hackers may be able to execute certain actions that could endanger your network by gaining access to an IP address. Hackers may be able to publish anything like messages or comments or ban you from accessing a certain website using your IP address. You can also be barred or prevented from using gaming devices to access online games. They might also carry out a Denial of Service (DoS) attack, which involves overloading your network with data in order to prevent normal traffic from passing through. Even yet, these kinds of attacks typically target businesses rather than specific gadgets.
Types of IP Addresses
Private IP Address: Internal network communication uses a private IP address. Every device connected to a network will have a unique private IP address. These include devices like laptops, speakers, phones, and printers. Public IP Address: For communication outside of the network, an ISP assigns a public IP address. By doing this, you can be confident that devices outside of your immediate network can recognize it. Public IP addresses come in static and dynamic varieties. These IP addresses are dynamic, meaning they frequently change automatically. For their clients, the ISPs purchase a sizable pool of IP addresses. They repeatedly assign new clients to the outdated IP addresses before returning them to the pool. This strategy reduces costs and increases security because it makes it more difficult for criminals to access your network if the IP addresses are continually changing. Static IP Address: Once allocated by the network, these IP addresses don’t change. Except in rare cases, most individuals and organizations do not need a static IP address. For instance, a company needs a static IP address for a website and any related email addresses if it plans to run its own server.
Find Your IP Address
Search “tool for ip address lookup” into Google Search to find your network’s public IP address quickly and easily. You can also utilize other websites, such whatismyipaddress.com and IP Location, to obtain the same information. Due to your attempt to access these websites, these websites were able to request your public IP address.
