What is an IP Address?
The IP address associated with your internet connection is a specific set of numbers that identifies your device from another’s and that gives information about where the device is located. When you connect a device to the internet, it’s assigned an IP address. This allows for communicating with other networks so that you can send and receive information. As soon as your go to a website, your IP address is sent to that site. Details included with the address are your state, country, and your zip code. When the site receives the address, it allows for the correct information to be sent based on your location instead of sending details to another state or another country.
Why it Should be Found
There are a few rules that are associated with the IP address and how information is sent online. Each device is identified by the address, which means that if there are two routers in your home, then there would be two IP addresses. This is to keep individuals separated and properly identified in regards to the information that’s sent online through the internet system. Think of this as social security numbers being assigned to two different people. It’s a way to keep everyone identified without addresses overlapping and getting information confused. If you have the same IP address as another person, then it could be compared to having the same phone number or physical address, which could mean that you get information that’s meant for someone else. If you have to change any details about your Wi-Fi system, then you could be asked to input your IP address since this is an identifying number.
Changing Your Address
There is a possibility that you might need to change your IP address in the future. If you move to a new location or change internet providers, then you could need to change the address, especially if you get new equipment. If you want to access information that might not be available in your location at the present time, then you could be asked to update your IP address. This will allow for the information that you request to be sent to your current location. If you’re not able to connect to the internet, then you might need to change your address when you contact your internet provider. Internet service providers such as HughesNet, Verizon, and Spectrum provides great customer service that they will assist their customers about IP change. Sometimes, throttling occurs by your provider, which limits the connection that you have as well as the speeds that you see. In the event that this occurs, you want to change the address to prevent the provider from obtaining information about your system.
If you suspect that a firewall or other security features have been bypassed or damaged, then you want to change your address as well as other identifying pieces of information so that other people won’t have access to your personal details. Sometimes, an IP address can be configured incorrectly, which means that it will need to be changed. You also might want to change it if there are multiple devices that are connected to the same network in your home or if there are two devices that have the same address so that you can keep each one separate. The IP address needs to go through your router in order for the devices in your home to connect to the internet that’s available. If there’s not a current address, then you likely won’t be able to connect.
