How to hide your IP address
You cannot browse without an IP address, but you can swap yours for someone else’s so that websites see a different one. The main options are a VPN, a proxy, the Tor network, or simply switching to mobile data.
Use a VPN
A VPN sends your traffic through a server run by the VPN company. Websites see the VPN server’s address instead of yours, and your provider sees only that you are connected to the VPN. It is the simplest option for most people, but you are trusting the VPN company with the information your provider would otherwise see.
Use a proxy
A proxy passes requests on for you and hides your address from the site. Most proxies do not encrypt anything, and they usually cover one app or browser rather than the whole device.
Use Tor
The Tor Browser bounces your traffic through three volunteer servers, so no single server knows both who you are and where you are going. It is strong for privacy and noticeably slower.
Switch network
Moving from home broadband to mobile data, or using a different Wi-Fi network, gives you a different public address with no extra software. It hides nothing about who you are, but it does change the address a site sees.
What hiding your IP does not hide
Logging in to an account, cookies, your browser fingerprint and anything you type still identify you. Hiding your address hides one clue, not all of them. After you connect, check the result on the My IP page.
Common questions
Is it legal to hide your IP address?
Across the UK and Europe it is generally legal to use a VPN, proxy or Tor. Each country has its own rules, so check yours, and using them for something illegal is still illegal.
Does incognito mode hide my IP address?
No. A private window stops your browser saving history, but websites and your provider still see your address.
How can I check my IP address is hidden?
Connect to the VPN or proxy and open the My IP page. If the address and location are not yours, it is working.