ipAddressing on a network
An IP address is a numerical address used to reach a network interface. A device can have different addresses on Wi-Fi, wired, and virtual connections. The address seen online often differs from its local address because a router or provider carries the connection through another address.
How to interpret a lookup
Start with the address type, then inspect the provider and approximate country. Two phones in one home may share a public IPv4 address. The reverse is also possible: one device may use different public addresses on different connections. Record the time and network when interpreting a result.
Separate identity from addressing
An IP lookup does not provide a person’s name or exact home address. Shared networks, VPNs, and changing addresses mean an IP is not equivalent to one person. When reviewing access logs, combine the address with timestamps, sessions, and application events rather than relying on it alone.
Two devices in one home
Connect a phone and laptop to the same Wi-Fi and read their public IPs. Then disable Wi-Fi on the phone and repeat over mobile data. A shared IPv4 on Wi-Fi is consistent with address sharing; a different mobile address indicates another network exit. This illustrates why a single IP log cannot identify a particular device or person.
Further reading
Internet Protocol — RFC 791 ↗Put it into practice
Inspect one public IP, or compare a list of addresses with the bulk lookup tool. Location results are approximate.
Single lookup ↗ Bulk lookup ↗