Quick table
| Local IP (private) | Public IP |
|---|---|
| Identifies a device inside your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network. | Identifies your network on the internet. |
| Assigned by your router, usually through DHCP. | Assigned by your ISP to your connection. |
| Common examples: 192.168.1.23, 10.0.0.12. | Looks like any routable IP, for example 203.0.113.45 (example). |
| Used for printers, NAS devices, smart home gear, local dashboards, and your router panel. | Used when you browse websites or when traffic reaches your network from outside. |
| Can repeat in many homes at the same time. | Cannot be the same public identity for many networks at the same time on the internet. |
The most common confusion
If you see 192.168… or 10…, that is local or private. Websites do not see that number. They see your public IP.
Where to find each one
- Local IP: inside your device network settings, or via tools like ipconfig in Windows.
- Public IP: easiest is to open your “what’s my IP” page. Your home page does exactly that.
If you want the actual device steps, go straight to Windows, Android, iPhone or macOS.
Why they’re different
Most home networks use a router that shares one public IP across many devices. Inside the network, each device gets its own local IP. That split is why both numbers can be true at the same time. If you want the deeper base layer first, start with what a local IP is.
When you usually need each one
Use a local IP
For printers, NAS devices, smart TVs, cameras, local dashboards, and router access inside your network.
Use a public IP
When checking what websites see, testing remote access, or understanding how your connection appears on the internet.
If your local IP keeps changing
That usually points to DHCP and dynamic assignment.
If you need it to stay the same
Go to how to set a fixed local IP.
If you are actually trying to get into your router settings, jump to router local IP or the practical hub at router IP.
Next step based on what you need
Understand what a local IP is
The core concept behind the address your router gives to each device inside your network.
Find your local IP on Windows
The fastest path if you want the actual IPv4 address on a Windows PC right now.
Find your local IP on Android
Useful if the device you care about is a phone, tablet, TV box, or other Android-based device.
Understand DHCP
The key to understanding why a local IP can change over time.
Set a fixed local IP
The next step if you need a printer, NAS, or camera to keep the same address.
Find your router local IP
Useful when the real task is getting into the router panel and not just comparing addresses.