In today's interconnected world, maintaining privacy and accessing content across different regions is becoming increasingly important. Whether you want to stream geo-restricted content, secure your online activities, or simply change your virtual location, knowing how to change your IP address is essential. The article prepared with the help of Ray Whilliams provides comprehensive tips and tricks on how to change your IP address location in 2024, click to read more.

Using a VPN

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are one of the most effective tools for changing your IP address. Here are the main benefits of using a VPN:

• Privacy: VPNs mask your real IP address, making it harder for websites and online services to track your online activities.
• Security: VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, protecting your data from hackers and other malicious entities.
• Bypassing Geo-restrictions: VPNs allow you to connect to servers in different countries, enabling you to access content that might be restricted in your region.

Steps to Change IP Address with a VPN

Changing your IP address with a VPN is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:

• Choose a VPN Service: Select a VPN service that suits your needs from the table above.
• Download and Install: Go to the VPN provider's website, download the app, and install it on your device.
• Create an Account: Register for an account and log in to the VPN app.
• Connect to a Server: Open the app and connect to a server in your desired location.
• Verify Your IP Address: Use an online tool to check your new IP address and ensure it reflects the server location.

Using a Proxy Server

Proxy vs. VPN: What’s the Difference?

While both proxies and VPNs can change your IP address, there are key differences:

• Security: VPNs encrypt your traffic, while proxies do not.
• Speed: Proxies are generally faster since they do not use encryption.
• Functionality: VPNs provide better privacy and security features compared to proxies.

Steps to Use a Proxy Server

Setting up a proxy server varies by device. Here are the instructions for different platforms:

Windows

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet.
3. Click on Proxy.
4. Under Manual proxy setup, toggle the switch to On.
5. Enter the proxy server address and port number.
6. Click Save.

Mac

1. Open System Preferences.
2. Click on Network.
3. Select your network connection and click Advanced.
4. Go to the Proxies tab.
5. Check the Web Proxy (HTTP) box and enter the proxy server address and port number.
6. Click OK and then Apply.

Android

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Wi-Fi.
3. Tap the network you are connected to and select Modify Network.
4. Under Advanced options, select Manual.
5. Enter the proxy server address and port number.
6. Tap Save.

iOS

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Wi-Fi.
3. Select the network you are connected to.
4. Tap Configure Proxy.
5. Choose Manual and enter the proxy server address and port number.
6. Tap Save.

Using Tor for Anonymity

Tor (The Onion Router) provides anonymity by routing your internet traffic through multiple servers (nodes). This multi-layered encryption makes it extremely difficult to trace your online activities back to you.

Steps to Change IP Address with Tor

• Download Tor Browser: Visit the Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser.
• Install and Launch: Install the browser and launch it.
• Connect to the Tor Network: The browser will automatically connect to the Tor network, giving you a new IP address.
• Browse Anonymously: Start browsing the internet with enhanced privacy and anonymity.

Changing IP Address Manually

On Windows

1. Log in as an administrator.
2. Open Settings.
3. Go to Network & Internet.
4. Select your connection and click Properties.
5. Under IP assignment, click Edit.
6. Choose Manual and toggle the IPv4 switch.
7. Enter your desired IP address and click Save.

On Mac

1. Open System Preferences.
2. Click Network.
3. Select your network and click Advanced.
4. Go to the TCP/IP tab.
5. Choose Manually from the Configure IPv4 dropdown.
6. Enter your new IP address and click OK.

Other Methods to Change IP Address

1. Resetting Your Router
2. Save any ongoing work and note your current IP address.
3. Unplug your router’s power cord.
4. Wait for at least 10 minutes, then plug it back in.
5. Reconnect to the network and check if your IP address has changed.