Changing your (Internet Protocol) IP address is a relatively simple process, even if you have not done it in the past. It’s also safe and legal, provided that you are not using it for other unlawful actions.
Computer machines and smartphones(iPhone, Android) have different IP addresses which may be static or dynamic, but the type that we will focus on is one that changes to keep your data protected and provide you privacy.
There are 4 simple ways to change your IP address on a computer in just 5-10 minutes. Using a trusted VPN or proxy is the best way to hide your IP address, but it also protects you from being traced and cyber-surveillance. Other than that you can manually edit your IP address or let your device manually provide you with a new one.
After changing your IP address you might face disconnectivity issues for a few minutes. It won’t harm your computer’s settings if all the steps were followed properly. If you are looking for ways to check how to find your IP address before changing it check the detailed article on how to do it. Read along to get the most out of how to change the IP address on a Computer.
How to Change the IP Address On a Computer ( with a VPN)
When you use a proven VPN service from our directory, the VPN will make it appear that you have a totally different (Internet Protocol) IP address from another country i.e. UK, United States, Australia, New Zealand, etc. You can make it seem like you are somewhere else by using a VPN app.
Browser-based proxies and VPNs are less resource-intensive than dedicated VPN apps. Proxies masks your visible IP address. There are a variety of proxies & browser-based (Virtual Private Network) VPNs that run on Chrome, Firefox, etc.
If you are considering a VPN, we have some recommendations which might help. Whatever your choice is, just avoid free of cost (Virtual Private Networks) VPNs. Consider the risks! If you want to go for your cheapest option remember that there are a few risks and potential threats.
How to Change the IP Address On a Computer ( by unplugging the router)
One method of getting a new IP address is by cutting off the power of your router. Unplugging the router for at least a couple of minutes will give you fresh access to an entire world of content. Attempting to reconnect your modem may not immediately change an IP address, so refresh or restart your computer. So basically, what you need to do is make your router forget your smartphone or computer so that it considers them as a new device and assign them a new (Internet Protocol)IP address. This doesn’t work on the first attempt so you have to be calm and try to do this a couple of times.
How to Change the IP Address On a Computer (Automatically)
Mac OS: Open your system preferences option you can open it by clicking on the apple icon at the top. Now, open Network then Advanced. Finally, click on the TCP/IP option followed by the DHCP lease and that’s it.
Windows 10: Open your Command prompt(CMD) and then type ipconfig /release and hit enter after that type in ipconfig /renew press enter and it will change your IP address.
How to Change the IP Address On a Computer ( Manually)
Below are the details for manually changing your IP address.
Mac OS: Open system preference and click Network, then Network Connection, finally click configure IPv4 and choose the option Manually and type in your IP address.
Windows: Just log into your computer with admin rights, press the Windows key on your keyboard, and open Control Panel. After that navigate to the Network connection option, and click on the (LAC) local area connection. Finally, click the properties button followed by TCP/IP. Now, you can fill in the new IP address.
Frequently asked questions
Does changing my IP address affect my computer?
Is IP address permanent?
Why does my computer change IP address?
Final thoughts
We hope that we’ve answered your questions regarding how to change the IP address on a computer in this straightforward article. There are a number of ways some of which might be new to you but as far as simplicity is concerned we have a firm belief that you won’t find any simpler solution than this.