When you are browsing the internet, you are automatically assigned an IP or Internet Protocol address which differentiates you from the billions of other active users. Unfortunately, many people on dubious areas of the internet have found how to use your own IP address against you, which could include hitting you offline (Referred to as DDOSing or a distributed denial-of-service) and finding your exact physical location.
If your IP address has fallen into the wrong hands, changing it as quickly as possible is key to limiting the amount of damage that can be done. Here at Lion Sourced, we have put together a list of free methods you can use to change your Internet Protocol Address in just a few minutes! Before switching your IP, head over to ‘What Is My IP’ and make a note of your current address, as this will enable you to check whether or not it has successfully changed.
Switching your Network Connection
This is most commonly performed on mobile devices when you have data available. Switching from a WIFI connection to your own mobile data will change your IP address instantly. This will also work on laptops and computers if you change the network you are connected to (Either via a different WIFI router or by utilizing a hotspot).
Reset the Router
Most routers will now change your internet protocol address when they are reset. To do this, simply turn your router off at the main power button, wait 2 minutes and then turn it back on. You can then connect your devices as normal. If this doesn’t work, try removing the power cable and leave the router off for 10 minutes, then turn it back on and proceed to reconnect.
Use a VPN
A virtual private network or VPN will mask your IP and provide you with one for a location of your choosing. From experience, I would always opt for a free chrome extension such as SetUp or DotVPN as they’re easy to setup and can be removed quickly if you no longer want to hide your IP. You can also find a VPN for your mobile devices on the App Store or Google Play, depending on your operating system.
Contact your ISP
Get in touch with your Internet Service Provider (BT, Sky, EE e.t.c) and they should be able to change your IP address remotely without incurring a cost. Usually this will involve a reset of the router so your internet may be down for a couple of minutes while the process is being handled.
That concludes our tutorial on how to change your IP address. To further protect yourself whilst in the future, consider using a VPN whenever you are browsing unknown websites or participating in online multiplayer games – These are the most common scenarios in which someone else can view your IP.
