How to Easily Find the External IP Address of Your Router

If you're wondering how to find the external IP address of your router, look no further. Your router has both an internal IP address and an external IP address. The internal IP address is used to communicate with devices on your local network, while the external IP address is the one that is visible to the outside world.

There are a few simple ways to find your router's external IP address. One way is to use a website that displays your IP address, such as www.whatismyip.com. Simply visit the website and it will show you your external IP address. Another way is to log in to your router's web interface. Each router has a different interface, but most have a section that displays the external IP address.

If you're not sure how to log in to your router's web interface, you can try looking for the user manual or doing a quick internet search for your router's model number. The user manual should provide instructions on how to access the web interface and where to find the external IP address. Alternatively, you can also try contacting your internet service provider (ISP) for assistance.

The importance of knowing your router's external IP address

Knowing your router's external IP address is an important piece of information that can be useful in a variety of situations. It allows you to easily access your home network from outside, connect to your devices remotely, and configure your router settings from anywhere in the world.

When you find out how to find your router's external IP address, you gain the ability to connect to your network securely, without having to rely on third-party services or paid software. This is especially useful if you have a home security system or surveillance cameras that you need to access remotely.

Furthermore, knowing your router's external IP address is essential for troubleshooting network issues. If you are experiencing connectivity problems, knowing the external IP address will help you pinpoint the problem and find a solution more efficiently.

In addition, being aware of your router's external IP address is crucial for setting up services such as VPNs, remote desktop access, or hosting your own website. These services rely on your IP address to securely connect to your network, so it is important to have this information readily available.

In conclusion, understanding how to find your router's external IP address is of utmost importance. It gives you the ability to connect to your home network remotely, troubleshoot network issues more efficiently, and set up various services that require your external IP address. Make sure to always keep track of this information for a seamless and secure network experience.

Why finding your router's external IP address is necessary

When it comes to setting up your home network or troubleshooting internet connection issues, knowing the external IP address of your router is crucial. Your router's external IP address is the unique identifier assigned to your network by your internet service provider (ISP). It acts as the public facing address that allows other devices on the internet to communicate with your network.

Here are a few reasons why finding your router's external IP address is necessary:

Finding your router's external IP address may seem daunting at first, but there are easy ways to accomplish it. By following simple steps, you can quickly obtain this important piece of information and utilize it for various network-related tasks.

Methods to find your router's external IP address

If you want to access your home network from outside, or if you want to check your internet connection, you may need to know the external IP address of your router. Here are a few ways to find it:

1. Method 1: Check your router's settings

One of the easiest ways to find your router's external IP address is to log in to your router's settings page. Usually, you can do this by entering the router's IP address into your web browser. Once you are logged in, you should be able to find the external IP address in the settings or status section.

2. Method 2: Use an online IP address checker

If you don't want to access your router's settings or if you don't know how to do it, you can use an online IP address checker. These websites allow you to see your external IP address by simply visiting their page. Just search for "check my IP address" on your favorite search engine, and you will find plenty of options to choose from.

3. Method 3: Use a command prompt or terminal

If you are comfortable with using a command prompt or terminal, you can find your router's external IP address by using a few simple commands. On Windows, open the command prompt and enter "ipconfig". Look for the "Default Gateway" under your network adapter's details – this is your router's IP address. On macOS or Linux, open the terminal and enter "ifconfig" or "ip route". Look for the IP address next to "default" – this is your router's IP address.

4. Method 4: Use a mobile app

If you prefer using your smartphone or tablet, you can find your router's external IP address by using a mobile app. There are plenty of apps available for both iOS and Android devices that can show you your external IP address with just a few taps.

Whichever method you choose, once you have found your router's external IP address, make sure to write it down or remember it for future reference. It can come in handy when you need to access your home network remotely or troubleshoot internet connection issues.

Method 1: Checking the router's admin panel

One of the easiest ways to find your router's external IP address is by checking the router's admin panel. The router's admin panel is a web-based interface that allows you to configure and manage various settings for your router.

Step 1: Connect to your router

First, you need to connect to your router's admin panel. To do this, open a web browser and enter the IP address of your router in the address bar. The default IP address for most routers is 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. If you are not sure about the IP address, you can check the back or bottom of your router for the default IP address.

Step 2: Enter your credentials

After entering the router's IP address, you will be prompted to enter your username and password. These credentials are usually printed on the back or bottom of your router. If you have changed the username and password in the past and can't remember them, you may need to reset your router to its default factory settings.

Once you have entered your credentials correctly, you will be logged into the router's admin panel.

Step 3: Find the external IP address

Now that you are logged into the router's admin panel, look for an option or tab that provides the network or WAN settings. This is where you can find your router's external IP address. It may be labeled as "Status," "Connections," or something similar.

In this section, you should be able to see your router's external IP address displayed. It may be labeled as "WAN IP address" or simply "IP address."

Once you have found the router's external IP address, you can note it down or take a screenshot for future reference.

Checking the router's admin panel is a straightforward method to find your router's external IP address. Make sure to keep your login credentials safe and secure to protect your router's settings.

Method 2: Using online IP lookup tools

Another easy way to find your router's external IP address is by using online IP lookup tools. These tools allow you to quickly and easily view your router's external IP address without having to access your router's settings.

Here's how to use online IP lookup tools to find your router's external IP address:

1. Open your web browser and search for "IP lookup tool" or "What is my IP address".
2. Choose one of the online IP lookup tools from the search results.
3. Once you are on the tool's website, it will automatically display your router's external IP address.
4. Make a note of the IP address or take a screenshot for future reference.

Using online IP lookup tools is a convenient way to find your router's external IP address, especially if you don't have access to your router's settings or if you're not familiar with how to navigate them. These tools provide a simple and user-friendly interface that makes it easy to get the information you need.

Keep in mind that your router's external IP address may change periodically, especially if you have a dynamic IP address from your internet service provider. So it's a good idea to check your external IP address periodically, especially if you need to access your router remotely or set up port forwarding.

Method 3: Using a command prompt or terminal

If you're comfortable using a command prompt or terminal, you can easily find the external IP address of your router using a few simple commands.

Step 1: Open the command prompt or terminal

First, you'll need to open the command prompt or terminal on your computer. This will depend on the operating system you're using.

Step 2: Enter the command

Once you have the command prompt or terminal open, type in the following command:

ipconfig (for Windows) or ifconfig (for macOS or Linux)

Step 3: Find the IP address

After running the command, you'll see a list of network information. Look for the line that says "Default Gateway" or "Router" and find the IP address listed next to it. This is your router's external IP address.

Now that you know how to use the command prompt or terminal to find the external IP address of your router, you can easily access it whenever you need to.

Method 4: Checking the IP address on your computer

If you want to know the external IP address of your router but don't have access to the router settings, you can easily find it using your computer.

Here's how:

1. Open a web browser: First, open a web browser on your computer.
2. Search "what is my IP": In the search bar of the web browser, type "what is my IP" and hit Enter.
3. Visit an IP address checker: Look for websites that provide IP address checking service and click on one of the search results.
4. Check the IP address: Once you are on the IP address checker website, it will automatically show you the IP address of your computer, which is the same as the external IP address of your router.
5. Make a note of the IP address: Take note of the IP address displayed on the website for future reference.

By following these simple steps, you can easily find the external IP address of your router without accessing the router settings.

Method 5: Using mobile apps

If you prefer using your mobile device to find the external IP address of your router, you can take advantage of various mobile apps available for both Android and iOS devices. These apps provide a quick and easy way to access your router's external IP address on the go.

Here are a few popular mobile apps you can use:

1. "IP Tools: Network utilities"

This comprehensive app offers a wide range of network tools, including an IP address scanner that allows you to find both your internal and external IP addresses. Simply download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, open it, and navigate to the IP address scanner tool. With just a single tap, you can discover your router's external IP address.

2. "Fing"

Fing is another powerful app that provides network scanning capabilities. With Fing, you can easily find your router's external IP address by tapping on the "Devices" tab, selecting your router from the list, and viewing the IP address displayed. This app is available for download on both Android and iOS devices.

Using mobile apps to find your router's external IP address is a convenient option when you need to access this information while on the go. Make sure to download a reputable app from a trusted source to ensure the security of your network.

Troubleshooting common issues in finding your router's external IP address

When trying to find the external IP address of your router, you may encounter some common issues that prevent you from successfully retrieving the information. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve these problems:

1. Incorrect typing or formatting of the IP address

Make sure you are entering the IP address correctly. It should be in the format of four number groups separated by periods (e.g., 192.168.1.1). Check for any typos or incorrect characters that may be causing the issue.

2. Firewall or security settings blocking access

Your router's external IP address may be blocked by your firewall or security settings. Access your router's settings page and check if there are any firewall or security settings that could be preventing access to the external IP address. Disable or adjust these settings accordingly to allow access.

3. Network connectivity issues

If you are unable to access your router's external IP address, there may be network connectivity issues. Check your network connections and make sure you are properly connected to the internet. Resetting your router or restarting your devices may also help resolve any connectivity problems.

4. Router firmware or software updates

Outdated router firmware or software can sometimes cause issues in finding the external IP address. Check if there are any available updates for your router's firmware or software. Updating to the latest version can often resolve any compatibility issues and provide better functionality overall.

Troubleshooting 1: Router login credentials

IP Address: In order to access your router's settings, you need to know its IP address. This address is unique to your router and is used to identify it on the network. To find the IP address of your router, you can use various methods.

Router Documentation: One way to find the IP address is by referring to the documentation that came with your router. The user manual or setup guide should contain information about how to access the router's settings and its IP address.

Router Label: Another method is to check the label on the router itself. Many routers have their IP address printed on a label attached to the device. Look for a number that follows the words "IP Address" or a similar phrase.

Command Prompt or Terminal: If you are comfortable using the command line, you can find the IP address of your router by using the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac and Linux). Open the Command Prompt or Terminal, type "ipconfig" or "ifconfig" respectively, and press Enter. Look for the "Default Gateway" entry, which will display the IP address of your router.

Router Login: Once you have found the IP address of your router, you can use it to access the router's settings. Open a web browser and type the IP address into the address bar. Press Enter, and you should be taken to the login page of your router.

Default Credentials: In most cases, the default username and password for the router's settings are printed on the router label or mentioned in the documentation. If you can't find them, you can search online for the default credentials of your router model.

Remember to change the default username and password to secure your router's settings and prevent unauthorized access.

Troubleshooting 2: Network Connectivity Issues

In some cases, you may face network connectivity issues while trying to find the external IP address of your router. These issues can prevent you from accessing the internet or connecting to other devices on your network. This section will provide you with some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve these problems.

Check your physical connections

The first step in troubleshooting network connectivity issues is to check all physical connections. Ensure that all cables, including the Ethernet cable connecting your router to your modem, are securely plugged in. Sometimes, loose or damaged cables can cause connectivity problems.

Restart your router and modem

If your physical connections are fine, try restarting both your router and modem. Unplug them from the power source, wait for a few seconds, and then plug them back in. This can help refresh the network connection and resolve any temporary issues.

If you are still experiencing network connectivity issues after checking physical connections and restarting your devices, you may need to consider other factors such as wireless interference, router settings, or ISP-related problems. It is recommended to contact your internet service provider or consult the router's manual for further assistance.

Troubleshooting 3: Firewall settings

Firewall settings can sometimes affect the ability to find your router's external IP address. Firewalls are designed to block certain types of incoming and outgoing network traffic, which can potentially interfere with network connections.

1. Checking firewall settings

To ensure that your firewall is not causing any issues in finding your router's external IP address, you can check its settings. Access the settings of your firewall software or hardware and look for any rules or restrictions that may be blocking the retrieval of the IP address. Make sure that the necessary ports and protocols are allowed for proper communication.

Additionally, you should verify that your firewall is not blocking any specific programs or applications that are used to find the router's external IP address. Sometimes, firewalls may flag these programs as potential threats and block them by default.

2. Temporarily disabling the firewall

If you're still having trouble finding your router's external IP address even after checking the firewall settings, you can try temporarily disabling the firewall as a troubleshooting step. By disabling the firewall, you can determine if it is indeed causing the issue or if there might be another underlying problem.

However, it is important to note that disabling the firewall may put your network at risk, as it removes an important layer of security. Therefore, make sure to only disable the firewall temporarily and re-enable it once the troubleshooting is complete.

Remember to proceed with caution when modifying firewall settings, as any incorrect changes can potentially leave your network vulnerable to security threats. If you're unsure about any of the steps mentioned above, it is recommended to consult the documentation of your firewall software or seek assistance from a professional.

Conclusion:

Firewall settings can impact the ability to find your router's external IP address. By checking and potentially adjusting the firewall settings, you can ensure that there are no obstructions preventing you from retrieving the IP address. However, always exercise caution when making changes to firewall settings and consider seeking professional help if needed.

Troubleshooting 4: ISP restrictions

If you are unable to find your router's external IP address using the methods mentioned earlier, it is possible that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) has implemented certain restrictions. ISPs can sometimes block or hide the external IP address of your router, making it difficult to access certain services or configure your network settings.

In such cases, it is recommended to contact your ISP for assistance. They may be able to provide you with the necessary information or help you navigate through any restrictions that are in place. It is important to communicate clearly with your ISP and explain the specific issue you are facing, including your need to find the external IP address of your router.

Additionally, you can try accessing your router's settings page and checking for any options related to external IP address visibility. Some routers may have settings that allow you to override restrictions imposed by your ISP, enabling you to easily find and access your router's external IP address.

If all else fails, you can also consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to bypass any restrictions imposed by your ISP. A VPN can hide your IP address and make it appear as if you are accessing the internet from a different location, potentially bypassing any restrictions that may be in place on your network.

Troubleshooting 5: Incorrect router configuration

If you are unable to find your router's external IP address, it may be due to an incorrect router configuration. Here are a few possible reasons and solutions:

1. Incorrect network settings: Check if your router's network settings are configured correctly. Make sure the IP address range, subnet mask, and default gateway are set properly.
2. Firewall settings: If you have a firewall enabled on your router, it may be blocking access to the external IP address. Disable the firewall temporarily and see if you can find the IP address.
3. Port forwarding: If you have set up port forwarding on your router, make sure the correct ports are being forwarded to the correct internal IP address.
4. Router firmware: Outdated router firmware can sometimes cause issues with finding the external IP address. Check for any available firmware updates and install them if needed.
5. ISP restrictions: Some ISPs may block access to certain tools or services that can help you find your external IP address. Contact your ISP to see if they have any restrictions in place.

If none of these solutions work, you may need to contact your router manufacturer for further assistance in resolving the incorrect router configuration.

Security considerations when finding your router's external IP address

When trying to find your router's external IP address, it is important to consider the security implications of accessing this information. While finding your IP address can be useful for certain purposes, it is important to be cautious and take necessary precautions to protect your network and sensitive data.

1. Ensure you are using a secure and reputable method

When finding your router's external IP address, make sure to use a secure and reputable method or tool. Avoid using questionable websites or third-party apps, as they may compromise your security and privacy. Stick to trusted sources and tools that are well-known and widely used.

2. Be aware of potential risks

Keep in mind that by accessing your router's external IP address, you are exposing information about your network to the internet. This could potentially make your network vulnerable to attacks, such as port scanning, DDoS attacks, or unauthorized access attempts. Prioritize the security of your network by implementing strong passwords, regularly updating firmware, and enabling firewall protections.

3. Regularly check for firmware updates

Router manufacturers often release firmware updates to address security vulnerabilities and improve performance. By regularly checking for updates and applying them, you can ensure that your router is protected against known security flaws. This will help to minimize the risks associated with finding and accessing your router's external IP address.

4. Use strong passwords

Always use strong, unique passwords for accessing your router's settings. Avoid using default or easily guessable passwords, as they can make it easier for attackers to gain unauthorized access to your network. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters to create a strong password.

By following these security considerations, you can safely find your router's external IP address without compromising the security of your network and personal data.

Security consideration 1: Keeping your router's firmware up to date

One of the most important steps in maintaining the security of your router is to keep its firmware up to date. Firmware is the software that runs on your router and controls its operations. Just like any other software, router firmware can have vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

By regularly updating your router's firmware, you can ensure that any known security issues are patched and that your router is protected against the latest threats. Many router manufacturers release firmware updates periodically to address security vulnerabilities and improve performance.

To check if there are any firmware updates available for your router, you will need to access its administrative interface. The process of accessing the router's administrative interface varies depending on the router brand and model. Refer to your router's documentation or the manufacturer's website for detailed instructions on how to access and update the firmware.

Once you have accessed the administrative interface, look for a section or tab labeled "Firmware" or "Software Update". Here, you can check if there are any updates available for your router's firmware. If updates are available, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to download and install the latest firmware version.

It is also worth mentioning that some routers have a feature called "automatic firmware updates" that can be enabled. This feature allows the router to check for updates periodically and install them automatically, ensuring that your router's firmware is always up to date.

Keeping your router's firmware up to date is essential for maintaining the security of your network. It is recommended to check for firmware updates regularly and install them as soon as they become available. By doing so, you can minimize the risk of your router being compromised by malicious actors.

Security consideration 2: Enabling password protection on the router

One important aspect of securing your router is enabling password protection. By setting up a strong password for your router, you can prevent unauthorized access and protect your network from potential intrusions.

To ensure the security of your router, it is crucial to follow these steps:

1. Access your router's settings

To enable password protection, you need to access your router's settings. Open a web browser and type in your router's IP address, which can be found by following the steps mentioned in the previous section on how to find your router's external IP address.

2. Set a strong password

Once you have accessed your router's settings, navigate to the security or administration section. Look for the option to set a password for your router. Make sure to choose a strong password that includes a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

It is also advisable to avoid using common words or phrases, as they can be easily guessed by attackers. The longer and more complex your password is, the more secure your router will be.

Remember to write down your password and store it in a safe place, as you may need it in the future to access your router's settings.

Enabling password protection on your router is a fundamental step in securing your network. By taking this precautionary measure, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and keep your network safe from potential threats.

Security Consideration 3: Using a VPN for Additional Security

While finding the external IP address of your router is an important step in managing its network settings, it is also crucial to consider the security aspect of your internet connection. One way to enhance the privacy and security of your online activities is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

A VPN is a service that creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet. By connecting to a VPN server, your internet traffic is encrypted, making it much more difficult for hackers or malicious actors to intercept your data. This adds an extra layer of security, especially when accessing sensitive information or using public Wi-Fi networks.

Why use a VPN?

1. Enhanced Privacy: When you connect to a VPN, your IP address is masked, and your internet traffic is routed through the VPN server. This makes it harder for websites, advertisers, or ISPs to track your online activities.

2. Secure Data Transmission: A VPN encrypts your data, ensuring that it is protected from potential eavesdroppers or hackers. This is particularly important when sending sensitive information, such as passwords, financial details, or personal data.

How to choose a VPN?

1. Security Features: Look for a VPN that offers strong encryption protocols, such as AES-256, and supports secure authentication methods.

2. No-Logs Policy: Make sure the VPN provider has a strict no-logs policy, which means they do not collect or store any information about your online activities.

3. Server Locations: Consider the VPN server locations. Choose a provider that has servers in the regions you frequently access to ensure better performance and accessibility.

4. User-Friendly Interface: Look for a VPN with an intuitive interface that is easy to set up and use, even for those less experienced with technology.

By incorporating a VPN into your online security practices, you can add an additional layer of protection to your internet connection and ensure your data remains private and secure.

Security consideration 4: Disabling remote administration

One important security measure to keep your router safe is to disable remote administration. By default, many routers allow remote access, which means that you can manage your router's settings from anywhere using its external IP address. However, this convenience also introduces potential security risks if left enabled.

Disabling remote administration ensures that only devices connected to your internal network can access and modify your router's settings. This effectively eliminates the possibility of external attackers gaining unauthorized access to your router and compromising your network.

How to disable remote administration

The process to disable remote administration varies depending on the make and model of your router. However, the general steps are as follows:

1. Open a web browser and enter your router's external IP address in the address bar.

2. Log in to your router's configuration page using the appropriate credentials.

3. Look for the remote administration setting within the router's configuration menu. It may be located under the administration, security, or advanced settings.

4. Disable the remote administration option or uncheck the box that enables it.

5. Save the changes and exit the configuration page.

By following these steps, you can effectively disable remote administration on your router and enhance the security of your network.

Security consideration 5: Regularly monitoring network activity

Monitoring network activity is an important aspect of maintaining the security of your network. By regularly monitoring the traffic on your network, you can identify any unusual or suspicious activity that may indicate a security breach.

One way to monitor network activity is by analyzing the external IP address of your router. The external IP address is the unique identifier assigned to your network by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It enables your devices to communicate with other devices and servers on the internet.

To find the external IP address of your router, you can use various methods. Firstly, you can check the settings or configuration page of your router. Typically, this can be accessed through a web browser by entering the router's IP address. From there, you should be able to locate the external IP address information.

If you are unsure of the router's IP address or unable to access the configuration page, you can also use online services or websites that can display your router's external IP address. Simply visit one of these websites, and they will provide you with the necessary information.

Monitoring your network activity, including the external IP address, allows you to detect any unauthorized or malicious access attempts. By frequently checking the IP logs and monitoring any suspicious patterns or activities, you can take appropriate actions to enhance the security of your network.

Taking the necessary steps to find your router's external IP address

When it comes to setting up your router, one important piece of information you'll need is the external IP address. This address is essential for accessing your router from outside your local network and making necessary changes. Here are a few simple steps to find the IP address of your router:

Step 1: Accessing your router's admin panel

To begin, open a web browser on a device connected to the same network as your router. In the address bar, type the default IP address of your router (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and press Enter. If you're unsure of the default address, consult the manual or search online for your router's specific model.

Step 2: Logging in to the admin panel

Once you've accessed the router's admin panel, you'll be prompted to enter a username and password. If you haven't changed these credentials, try using the default username and password provided by the manufacturer. Common examples include "admin" for the username and "password" for the password. If you've changed the login details and can't remember them, you may need to reset your router to its factory settings.

Step 3: Finding the router's IP address

Once you're logged in to the admin panel, navigate to the settings or network section. Look for a tab or menu option labeled "Network" or "Status", which should display the router's IP address. In some cases, the IP address may be found under "WAN" or "Internet" settings. Take note of this IP address as it will be your router's external IP address.

Note: If you're unable to find the IP address in the router's settings, you can also try visiting a website that displays your public IP address, such as "whatismyip.com". This will show your router's external IP address as seen by the internet.

Now that you know how to find your router's external IP address, you can easily access it remotely and make any necessary changes to your network settings. Remember to always keep your router's firmware updated and choose strong passwords to maintain the security of your network.

Question-answer:

Is it possible to find my router's external IP address without accessing the router settings?

Yes, it is possible to find your router's external IP address without accessing the router settings. There are several ways to do this, such as using websites or apps that display your IP address.

Can I use my smartphone to find my router's external IP address?

Yes, you can use your smartphone to find your router's external IP address. There are many mobile apps available that can provide you with this information, or you can simply use a web browser on your smartphone to visit a website that displays your IP address.

What is the easiest way to find my router's external IP address?

The easiest way to find your router's external IP address is by using a website that displays it. These websites can tell you your IP address with just a click of a button, without the need for any technical knowledge.

Are there any command line tools I can use to find my router's external IP address?

Yes, there are command line tools available that can help you find your router's external IP address. For example, you can use the "curl" command in the terminal to make a request to a website that displays your IP address. The output will show your external IP address.

What should I do if I can't find my router's external IP address?

If you can't find your router's external IP address, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure you are using the correct method or website to find the IP address. If that doesn't work, you may need to access your router's settings and look for the IP address there. If you are still having trouble, you can try restarting your router or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.

How can I find the external IP address of my router?

There are several ways to find the external IP address of your router. One way is to simply type "what is my IP address" into a search engine, and it will display your router's external IP address. Another way is to log in to your router's settings page and look for the external IP address listed there.

What is the purpose of finding my router's external IP address?

Knowing your router's external IP address is important for various reasons. It allows you to access your home network remotely, set up a virtual private network (VPN), or configure port forwarding for specific devices or services. Additionally, it can help identify your network on the internet and troubleshoot any connectivity issues.

Is it possible for my router's external IP address to change?

Yes, your router's external IP address can change. Internet service providers (ISPs) typically assign dynamic IP addresses, which means they can change over time. Rebooting your router, reconnecting to the internet, or your ISP making changes to their network can all potentially result in a change of your router's external IP address. However, some ISPs also offer static IP addresses for an additional fee, which do not change.