Does Using a VPN Hide Your IP Address? Yes

Some people will not go online unless they have a virtual private network (VPN), while others feel that simply utilizing the Incognito mode when browsing the web is enough to keep them secure. If you fall into the latter group, you may be putting yourself at risk for online security threats, such as tracking and hacking. Yet, a way to avoid this might be right in front of you.

When it comes to hiding your online behavior, a VPN can do more than Incognito mode ever could. It can hide your location and change your IP address.

But is your IP address really hidden?

Keep reading to discover how a VPN works.

Does Using a VPN Hide Your IP Address?

Let’s begin by defining some essential terms.

You may use a VPN to keep your online activity private and secure, as well as safeguard your internet traffic. Essentially, encrypting your device’s data and sending it to one of the provider’s many servers is what they do.

What’s the Purpose of Hiding Your IP?

Similar to a ZIP Code, your computer’s IP (internet provider) address serves as a unique identifier on the internet for your device. This implies that the information you send out on the internet might potentially be traced back to your computer’s IP address. As a result, your precise location may be discovered.

In addition, corporations often utilize this information to determine your browsing habits and interests to serve you with more relevant advertising. However, hiding your IP address can help you avoid this.

Another reason to disguise your IP address is if you use a secure network.

Remote workplaces have made it easier for many people to work from home rather than in an office. IP masking is a wonderful way to keep your web activity hidden, especially when you’re viewing sensitive information.

Masking an IP address can help you bypass censorship constraints in places where internet restrictions are tough. Although VPNs don’t affect censorship rules, they allow access to content that would otherwise be unavailable in countries with stringent censorship restrictions.

Furthermore, streaming services like Netflix offer different content in different languages based on the user’s location. Using a VPN allows you to access stuff that isn’t available in your area.

How Does a VPN Hide Your IP Address?

VPN services, like ExpressVPN, alter the way data travels from your computer to the internet. Encryption is used before any information is sent from your computer or mobile device. Before it reaches its final destination online, it is first passed through one of the VPN network’s servers.

When using a VPN, your computer’s IP address is no longer your source IP address. Instead, the VPN server’s IP address, which might be located anywhere in the world, becomes your origin address.

However, things aren’t as straightforward as they appear. Virtual private networks are susceptible to various data breaches, including IP and DNS leaks. Installing a VPN with its own DNS servers and DNS leak protection protocols can help avoid this.

Like a shaky internet connection, a VPN connection might go down at any time. A “kill switch” can be used to suspend data transfer until the VPN is functional again, preventing your IP address from being seen in this situation.

So, instead of displaying your actual IP address, the VPN displays a fake one. In other words, the replacement will be visible to your ISP and any website you visit.

An Internet service provider (ISP) is a business that offers personal and business customers access to the internet. Even if you can hide your device’s private IP address, the replacement will still be accessible to the internet.

Although proxy servers can mask your IP address, they lack many advantages of a good VPN and may not be as secure. For example, ExpressVPN has 160 servers in 94 countries and 256-bit AES encryption to hide your IP address. The “kill switch” and a 24/7 customer support service are also included in the package.

Is a VPN Encryption Enough to Protect Your IP Address From Your ISP?

Definitely! Your ISP will not be able to determine your IP address. Instead, it will be able to identify the VPN’s replacement.

Since your router and ISP can receive encrypted data, this method works. Decrypting the traffic and delivering it to a website makes it appear as though it was sent from an IP address other than your own.

How to Use a VPN

It’s not difficult to set up a VPN connection. What you’ll do will differ according to the service you use. However, the main idea stays the same. Here’s an example of how to use ExpressVPN:

1. Go to ExpressVPN‘s official web page.
   
2. Open a user profile.
   
3. Install the software by downloading it and following the on-screen instructions.
   
4. Open the VPN client and log in.
   
5. Select servers in any region.
   

Additional FAQs

Is My Search History Safe With a VPN?

When you search for a website or enter a URL into your browser’s address bar, your device sends a DNS request. An HTTP request turns the URL of a website into an IP address, which is how your browser can find and display it. On the other hand, a VPN encrypts your DNS queries so that no one can see what you’re searching.

Does a VPN Cover My Identity?

Yes! When you use a VPN, web trackers can’t follow you across the web. Instead, your traffic will appear to originate from a different location and potentially from another device. It protects your identity by preventing hacker efforts such as attacks while utilizing public networks.

Do Virtual Private Networks Slow Down Internet Speed?

Your internet speed might be affected by some VPNs. Using a VPN like ExpressVPN, which has a reputation for reliable connections, can help prevent your internet connection from slowing down. Consider moving your server to a location closer to where you live if your connection appears to be slower.

Ensure That Your Online Identity Is Safe

When it comes to protecting one’s online privacy, a virtual private network is an essential tool. They help disguise your IP address, meaning no one will be able to figure out your actual location or access information you want to be kept private. It’s an additional layer of protection when you’re accessing the internet.

Is this your first time using a VPN? Do you find VPNs necessary? Has using a virtual private network ever been a problem for you? Let us know in the comment section below.