Everything you do online, including the sites you visit and the information you key, can be tracked. Ad networks can predict the products that interest you by collecting data on what you search online. Websites can also prevent you from accessing their content due to your location. They can do all these because of your IP address. An IP address is like an ID number connected to your device that informs the websites you visit of your location. Search engines like Google usually record your searches by connecting them to your IP address.
Why you should mask your IP address
However, you can mask your IP address if you do not want to leave a trace of your online activities or browse the internet without the ad network or search engine tracking you. The simplest way to mask your IP is by connecting to a VPN (Virtual Private Network). Here, you create a secure connection to the VPN’s server, which gives you a new IP address. You can hide your IP address for several reasons including:
- Stopping ad networks from tracking your searches so that you do not get unnecessary suggestions and advertisements
- Hiding your online activities from your internet service provider
- Securing sensitive searches
- Protecting your data from surveillance
- Overcoming geographical barriers
How to hide your IP address
Every system connected to the internet, including mobile phone and PC, has its IP address. This IP is unique for every system or machine and points to the location of the system. Hiding an Internet Protocol (IP) is not difficult, especially when you have the right tools and know how to use them. Here are some of the tools you can use to remain anonymous online.
Proxy server: A proxy server is like a bridge between your machine and the website. Every information that you key in your computer or device passes through the middle server, changing their appearance before getting to the desired destination. Thus, a proxy server intercepts and takes control of your connection. Any information that finally gets to the destination website/server appears as has originated from the proxy server.
TOR: The Onion Router (TOR) or dark web transfers your information to other networks of servers where you are assigned a new IP address. This tool will enable you to access websites and content that you cannot access from your current location.
Public Wi-Fi: The good thing about the IP address is that you cannot carry it with you. You can easily change it by connecting to a public Wi-Fi. However, this means of masking your Wi-Fi is unsafe, and you may expose your information to a lot of risks.
VPN Software: VPN is probably the best tool for hiding your IP address. VPNs like NordVPN can offer several services including:
- Hiding your IP address
- Allowing for safe torrenting
- Encrypting internet traffic
- Unblocking sites such as Hulu and Netflix
VPNs work by assigning your system a new IP address when you connect to their servers. The second IP address that the server assigns to you will spoof your real IP. One of the most reliable and secure VPNs is NordVPN. You can click https://nordvpn.com/features/hide-ip/ to learn how you can benefit from using a VPN.
VPN providers have hundreds of servers in different locations around the world. When you subscribe to their services, they will connect your traffic to the server nearest to you to ensure that your connection and browsing speed are improved.
How to use a VPN
Setting up security tools like VPNs is simple, especially for people with necessary IT skills. You can set up and use VPNs in the following simple steps:
- Download the app
Once you have settled on the VPN provider, you need to select your preferred plan and download their app. A subscription plan can either be weekly, monthly or even annually. You need a plan that fits your budget and frequency of use. The VPN app can either be for your PC, phone, or any device that you intend to use. - Set up the VPN service
Once you have downloaded the VPN app, follow the easy steps provided to install and set it up. For some providers, you only need to read the display and click on “next” to move to the next instruction and “finish” to complete the setup. - Log in and connect to the VPN server
Once you complete the setup process, you will need to log in from your device to connect to the VPN server near you. You’ll have to key your identification details such as username and password. Some VPN companies auto-generate a unique user name for you, while others allow you to create a unique one. Once you log in, you can enjoy browsing without having to worry about leaving trails.
Final thoughts
When you hide your IP address, you can enjoy the internet without worrying about your privacy and security. The method you choose to mask your IP should be secure and offers a quick or reliable connection. Contact your VPN provider before enlisting for their services.
Note: This is a guest post. You’ll never find our opinions in them.
Are you interested in doing a paid guest or sponsored post or advertising in some other fashion on our site? Fill out this form!
