How do I hide my IP address?

The most common method to hide your IP address is to use a proxy server in one form or another. A proxy is a computer network that allows its customers to make indirect network connections to the Internet. Technically, your online activity goes to the proxy first, which handles and sends along your requests for information, data, files, email, etc. In each case, your actual IP address is hidden.

• VPN Services
  A virtual private network (VPN) protects your data and identity over public networks such as the Internet and wireless hotspots (locations that offer wireless connection). A VPN uses a system of special protocols to create an encrypted tunnel that transports data securely. Whereas a firewall protects the data on your computer, a VPN will protect your data on the Internet.
  


• Website-Based Proxy Servers
  A website-based proxy server provides a place for you to enter the URL of a website that you wish to visit anonymously. When you submit the form, the website proxy server makes a request for the page that you want to visit. The proxy usually does not identify itself as a proxy server and does not pass along your IP address in the request for the page. The features of these sites vary (ad blocking, JavaScript blocking, etc.), as does their price. Some are free and some charge.
  


• Browser-Configured Proxy Servers
  There are also stand-alone proxy servers that allow you to route your browser traffic through that proxy, which then makes a request for a page on your behalf and sends you the results. These are usually used at no cost to you. However, because they are available free to the public, they are often slow. Please see instructions for using a proxy server and proxy risks.
  
  There are several of these types of proxies that will hide your IP address:
  
  
  
  • Anonymous Proxy
    This type of proxy server identifies itself as a proxy server. It is detectable (as a proxy), but provides reasonable anonymity for most users.
    
  
  
  • Distorting Proxy
    This type of proxy server identifies itself as a proxy server, but creates an "incorrect" originating IP address available through the "http" headers.
    
  
  
  • High-Anonymity Proxy
    This type of proxy server does not identify itself as a proxy server and does not make available the original IP address.