An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to the internet. It works like a mailing address — it tells other computers where to send information when you request a website or service.

Your public IP is what websites and services see — it's assigned by your internet provider and identifies your network on the internet. Your private IP is used within your home network (assigned by your router) and isn't visible to the outside world.

An IP address can reveal your approximate city and region, and your internet provider — but not your exact street address or identity. The location data is based on where your ISP's infrastructure is located, which may not match your actual home.

Most home internet providers assign "dynamic" IP addresses that can change when you restart your router or after a period of time. Businesses typically have "static" IP addresses that stay the same. A VPN will also change your visible IP address.