How to Hide Your IP Address: 5 Methods Explained

A VPN routes your traffic through an encrypted tunnel and makes websites see the VPN server IP instead of your normal connection. It is the most practical option for everyday privacy, but the VPN provider can still see connection metadata and some websites may identify known VPN ranges.

A proxy forwards selected traffic through another server, while Tor sends traffic through multiple volunteer relays for stronger anonymity at the cost of speed and compatibility. Proxies are useful for specific apps or testing, while Tor is better when anonymity matters more than convenience.

Switching from home Wi-Fi to mobile data usually changes your public IP because it moves you to a different carrier network. Restarting a router may also change a dynamic IP, though many ISPs keep the same address until their lease or assignment changes.

Public Wi-Fi can also show a different IP, but it is not a privacy solution by itself. The network operator may monitor traffic, and unsecured Wi-Fi adds risks unless your apps use HTTPS and you trust the hotspot.

After changing networks or enabling a privacy tool, check Crafzo before and after to confirm the public IP, ISP, and location changed. If the IP is the same, the tool may not be active for that browser or device.

Hiding an IP does not erase browser fingerprints, cookies, account logins, or payment records. For real privacy gains, combine IP masking with careful account separation and browser privacy controls.