How to hide your IP address
By Leonardo Araújo, CEO of Leaven Marketing · Information checked on
To hide your IP, websites have to see another server's address instead of yours. The usual ways are a VPN, a proxy and Tor. For everyday use, a VPN is the most practical, because it hides your IP and encrypts your connection.
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Why hide your IP
- Location: your IP points to your approximate city and your provider.
- Tracking: advertisers combine your IP with other data to build a profile.
- Gaming attacks: an exposed IP can be targeted with attacks that knock your connection offline.
The 4 ways, compared
| Method | Hides your IP | Encrypts | Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VPN | yes | yes | good | everyday use |
| Proxy | yes, in the configured app | usually not | varies | one-off tasks |
| Tor | yes | yes | slow | maximum privacy |
| Mobile data | changes it, doesn’t hide it | no | good | a quick IP change |
Hiding your IP with a VPN
- Install the VPN app on your phone or computer.
- Pick a server close to you to keep your speed.
- Connect and check that sites now see the server’s IP.
According to NordVPN, it has more than 7,200 servers in more than 225 locations, and its top plan includes a dedicated IP that’s only yours. See the NordVPN plans.
Sources
- NordVPN: pricing (October 20, 2026)
- NordVPN: features (October 20, 2026)
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FAQ
Does restarting my router hide my IP?
It may change it if your provider uses dynamic IPs, but the new one is still linked to you.
Are free proxies safe?
Not always. The proxy owner sees your traffic, and many don't encrypt anything.
Is hiding your IP legal?
In most countries, yes. See [is using a VPN legal?](/en/is-using-a-vpn-legal/)
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