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VPN basics · Plain-English answer

How do I change my IP address?

The quickest way to change your IP address is to connect to a VPN, which replaces it with the server's address instantly. Other methods include restarting your router to request a new address from your ISP, switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data, or asking your ISP directly.

Methods that work

A VPN is the most reliable method because it works on demand and lets you pick the country your new address is in. Connect to a server and every site you visit sees that server's IP instead of yours. You can verify the change at /tools/my-ip/ before and after connecting.

Without a VPN, you can power your router off for a while, since many ISPs assign a fresh dynamic address when it reconnects. Switching your phone to mobile data also gives you a different address, and mobile IPs change frequently on their own.

Which method suits which goal

If you want a different country, only a VPN or similar service does that, and country pages such as /vpn/united-states/ show what is available where. If you just want a fresh address on the same network, the router restart is free but not guaranteed, because some ISPs hold the same address for weeks.

Remember that changing your IP does not erase cookies or logged-in sessions, so sites you use regularly may still recognise you.

Related questions

Does restarting my router always change my IP?
No. It depends on your ISP's lease times. Short power cycles often return the same address, and some ISPs keep addresses stable for months.
Is changing your IP address legal?
Yes, in general. Using a VPN or requesting a new address from your ISP is normal practice. What you do with the new address is still subject to the same laws and site terms.

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