Most devices receive their IP address automatically from their network through a technology called DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigns your router a public IP address, and your router assigns private IP addresses to devices on your local network. For permanent connections like servers, you can request a static IP from your ISP.

If your displayed IP address or location seems incorrect, it could be because you are behind a proxy server, VPN, or corporate firewall. Many companies and ISPs use transparent proxy servers that intercept web requests, showing the proxy's IP instead of yours. Additionally, IP geolocation databases aren't always accurate and may show your ISP's headquarters location rather than your actual location.

IPv4 addresses use a 32-bit format (e.g., 192.168.1.1) and can support about 4.3 billion unique addresses. IPv6 uses a 128-bit format (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334) and can support virtually unlimited addresses. IPv6 was developed because the internet ran out of IPv4 addresses due to the growing number of connected devices.

No, your IP address only reveals your approximate location, typically your city or region, not your exact street address. Only your ISP knows which IP address is assigned to which physical address, and they are legally required to protect this information. However, you should still be cautious about sharing your IP publicly, as it can be used to identify your general area and ISP.

You can hide your real IP address by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network), which routes your traffic through a server in another location. Other options include using the Tor browser, a proxy server, or connecting through a mobile hotspot. Keep in mind that while these methods hide your IP from websites, your real IP is still known to your VPN/proxy provider.