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What a local IP is
A local IP, also called a private IP, is the address that identifies a device inside an internal network. Your router assigns it automatically so each device has its own identity at home or in the office.
For example, your laptop can have one local IP and your phone another, even if both are connected to the same Wi-Fi. That is how the network knows where data should go.
Key idea: a local IP only works inside your private network. It is not the address the internet sees.
Examples of local IP addresses
On a typical home network, you may see addresses like these:
Example 1
192.168.1.12
Example 2
192.168.1.25
Example 3
10.0.0.8
Example 4
172.16.0.15
Each device connected to your network gets its own private IP address. That is why the printer, phone, NAS, and computer do not share the same internal IP.
Which private IP ranges exist
Local IP addresses always belong to ranges reserved for private networks. The three main blocks are:
- 192.168.0.0 – 192.168.255.255
- 10.0.0.0 – 10.255.255.255
- 172.16.0.0 – 172.31.255.255
In most homes and small offices, the most common range is 192.168.1.x. If you want more detail, here is a dedicated guide: local IP ranges.
Difference between local IP and public IP
A local IP identifies devices inside your network. A public IP identifies your connection on the internet.
Local IP
Used for communication between devices inside your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
Public IP
The address the internet sees when your connection goes online.
All devices in your home usually share the same public IP, but each device has its own local IP. Here is the full comparison: local IP vs public IP.
How to find your local IP
It depends on the device you use. These are the direct guides:
On Windows, for example, one of the fastest ways is to open CMD and type ipconfig. Then look for the IPv4 Address line on the active adapter.
What a local IP is used for
A local IP has many uses on a home network or small office:
- accessing the router
- setting up network printers
- connecting to a NAS or local server
- using IP cameras
- sharing files between devices
- identifying devices on the network
Whenever one device “talks” to another inside the same network, it usually uses the local IP address.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is my local IP?
It is the private address your router assigns to your device inside your network. It usually looks like 192.168.x.x, 10.x.x.x, or 172.16.x.x.
Are local IP and private IP the same?
Yes. In everyday home networking, they mean the same thing: the internal address of a device on the network.
Is local IP the same as public IP?
No. A local IP works inside your network. A public IP is the address your connection uses on the internet.
Can my local IP change?
Yes. The router usually assigns it through DHCP, and it can change after reconnecting, restarting the device, or changing network settings.
Which IP do I need for a printer or NAS?
Normally you need the device’s local IPv4 address inside your network.