How to Change IP Address and Stay Anonymous

Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by Editorial

An Internet Protocol address (IP) is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to the internet. It serves as an identifier for that device, allowing it to communicate with other devices and access the internet. An IP address is something you can change and this article will show you how to change IP address.

People change their IP address for various reasons. It could be to hide their online activities from surveillance or access restricted content. There are many methods you can use to change your IP address like using virtual private networks, web proxies, Tor network or tweaking settings on your PC.

If you want to know how to change an IP address to hide your online movements, then you’ve come to the right place.

4 Advanced Methods for Changing Your IP Address

The following are reliable ways to change your IP address.

Method #1: Using a VPN

A virtual private network allows you to change your IP address by routing your internet connection through a server in a different location. This can help protect your online privacy, bypass censorship, and improve your internet connection.

Here’s how you can use a VPN to change your IP address:

• Subscribe to a VPN service. There are many VPNs available, and choosing a reliable one that offers fast and secure connections is essential.

• Download and install the VPN client on your preferred device. Most premium VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

• Connect to a server. The VPN will establish a secure connection to the server. Your IP address will be changed to the server’s IP address.

• Enjoy your new IP address. Once you’re connected to the VPN server, your internet traffic will be routed through it. Your IP address will be changed to the server’s IP address. 

Method #2: Changing Network Settings on Your Device

You can change your IP address by tweaking your network IP settings on Windows or Mac. But first, you need to ensure the following two things are in order.

• Determine your current IP address: Before you change your IP address, it’s essential to know what it is. To find out your current IP address, you can use a tool such as WhatIsMyIP.com.

• Disconnect from the internet: You’ll need to disconnect from the internet and reconnect using different network settings.

Once that’s done, follow these steps depending on your device.

Windows

• Open the Control Panel and tap on “Network and Internet.”

• Click “Network and Sharing Center.”

• Click “Change Adapter Settings” on the left side of the window.

• Right-click on your active network adapter and select “Properties.”

• Click the “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” option and then click “Properties.”

• Select the “Use the following IP address” option. Enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway you want to use. You can also join the DNS server addresses using a different DNS server or internet protocol version.

• Click “OK” to apply the changes.

Mac

Click the Apple menu, select “System Preferences,” and select “Network.” 

Select your active network from the list and tap “Details.”

Click the “TCP/IP” tab.

From the “Configure IPv4” drop-down menu, select the “Manually” option.

Enter the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway you want to use. You can also enter the DNS server addresses if you want to use a different DNS server.

Click “OK” to apply the changes.

Note that changing your IP address through network settings is only temporary. It will only last until you disconnect from the internet or restart your device.

Method #3: Using a Proxy Server

This computer acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. It automatically routes your internet traffic through its IP address. Switching to a proxy server’s IP address can allow you to change your public IP address. Additionally, you can access websites and online content that might be blocked or restricted in your location. 

Here’s a detailed guide on changing the same IP address you’re on now through a proxy server:

Windows

• Click the Start button and type “Internet Options” in the search bar.

• Click the “Connections” tab and then the “LAN Settings” button.

• Check the “Use a proxy server for your LAN” option. Enter the new proxy server address and port number in the “Address” and “Port” fields.

• Click “OK” to apply the changes.

Mac

• Click the Apple menu. Select “System Preferences,” select “Network,” and then select your active network from the list on the left.

• Click the “Details” button and select the “Proxies” tab.

• Check the “Web Proxy (HTTP)” option. Enter the proxy server address and port number in the “Server” and “Port” fields.

• Click “Apply” to apply the changes.

Again, remember that using a proxy server to change your computer’s IP address can slow down your internet connection. This is because your traffic is routed through an additional server. It can also be less secure than other methods of changing your IP address. Your traffic isn’t encrypted and can be intercepted by others.

Method #4: Using the Tor Network

This is a free, open-source network that allows you to change your IP address and browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing your internet traffic through a series of servers. These servers are known as “nodes,” and encrypting it at each hop to protect your privacy. 

Here’s a detailed guide on how to change your IP address using the Tor network:

• Determine your local IP address through WhatIsMyIP.com or visit the website of your internet service provider (ISP).

• Download and install the Tor Browser from the Tor Project website. Install it on your device like any other software.

• Connect to the Tor network by launching the browser and clicking the “Connect” button. The browser will establish a connection to the Tor network. It will then change your IP address to the IP address of the last node in the chain.

Advantages of Changing Your IP Address

There are several benefits to changing your IP address, and here are seven of them:

• Improved security: Changing your IP address can help protect your online privacy and security. Using a different IP address can help mask your online activity and make it harder for others to track you.

• Bypassing censorship: In some countries, the government censors certain websites and online content. Changing your IP address to one from a different country can help you avoid these restrictions and access blocked content.

• Avoiding IP ban: If you’ve been banned from a website or online service for violating their terms of service, don’t worry. Changing your IP address can help you regain access.

• Avoiding congestion: If you’re experiencing slow internet speeds or other connectivity issues, changing your IP address could help improve your connection. This is because different IP addresses can be routed through various internet service providers (ISPs). Alternatively, switching to another ISP could also improve your connection.

• Improved gaming experience: Gamers can benefit from changing their IP address, which can help reduce lag and enhance connection quality. This can be especially useful for online multiplayer games where a stable connection is crucial for a smooth gaming experience.

• Enhanced anonymity: If you want to remain anonymous online, using a different IP address can help mask your true identity. This can be useful for posting on forums or engaging in online discussions. Keeping your personal information private is important.

• Protecting against malware: Changing your IP address can help protect you against malware. It can make it harder for cybercriminals to target you. If you suspect that your IP address has been compromised, switching to a new one can help stop future attacks.

Disadvantages of Changing Your IP Address

There are some potential drawbacks of changing your IP address:

• Interruptions to internet service. Changing your IP address may cause disruptions to your internet service. This is because it involves changing your network settings or routing your traffic through a different server. This can cause temporary delays or outages. It can also compromise your home network online security.

• Slower internet speeds. Depending on the method you use to change your IP address, your internet speeds may be slower. Using a proxy server or the Tor network can add a hop to your internet traffic, slowing your connection.

• Loss of access to certain websites or services. Some websites and online services may restrict access based on your IP address. Changing your IP address may prevent you from losing access to these websites or services. They may not be available in the location of the new IP address.

• Risk of malware or cyber-attacks. Changing your IP address may expose you to more significant risks of malware or cyber attacks. There’s a high chance you may be routed through untrusted servers or networks. It’s essential to be cautious when using methods such as proxy servers or the Tor network. They may offer a lower level of security than other methods.

Conclusion

Are you ready to change your private IP address and unlock your internet usage like never before? Feel free to use any of the four methods discussed above to beat restrictions even from your internet service provider. Just remember to be safe and avoid breaking laws.

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