Common questions about IP addresses, how they work, and what they reveal about you.
An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique number assigned to every device connected to the internet. Think of it as your device's postal address. There are two types: IPv4 (like 192.168.1.1) and IPv6 (like 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334).
Your public IP address is visible to the internet — it is what BeaNel shows you. Your private IP address is used within your local network and is not visible outside.
No. IP geolocation can only estimate your location to a city or region level. It cannot pinpoint your exact street address.
Most ISPs assign dynamic IP addresses that change when you reconnect. Some offer static IP addresses for extra fee, typically used by businesses.
IPv6 is the newer Internet Protocol with 340 undecillion addresses vs IPv4's 4.3 billion. Most modern devices support both.
Use a VPN to mask your real IP address. A VPN routes traffic through encrypted servers, making websites see the VPN's IP instead of yours.
Under POPIA (South Africa) and GDPR (EU), IP addresses are personal data. Websites must handle your IP responsibly and obtain consent before collecting it.
Your public IP reveals approximate location (city/region), your ISP, and whether you use a VPN. It does not reveal your name, phone, email, or exact address.
Visit beanel.com from any browser on your phone. Your IP appears instantly. For your private IP, check Settings then Wi-Fi then your network details.
Two devices on the same home network share the same public IP (via NAT on your router). Each device has its own unique private IP on the local network. Two devices on different networks cannot have the same public IP simultaneously.