What is an IP Address ?

It consider an IP address as the calling card over the internet. A user visiting a website or using an online service becomes visible to the destination server. The main issue with this is that it becomes very easy to track our current location as well as reveals our identity. All these can be used severely to perform a cyber attack on your network.

1. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

The most effective method to hide IP addresses is using VPN. This method connects the user to an external server and by doing so you can make the VPN's IP address you own. As a result, your real IP address will remain hidden.

The VPN not only hides the IP address but also encrypts your connection, so even the ISP (Internet service provider) cannot tell what you are up to. The only visible evidence they have is the VPN's IP address.

2. Proxy

If you don't want to pay for a VPN the using proxy is the best way to move forward. The proxy works by routing your internet connection with the help of n intermediary server. The only difference being here the connection is not encrypted by default.

They have a web filter or a firewall so there are some protective measures that are followed here depending on the configuration. A user can easily enable proxy in his browser as there are many free proxy add-ons that you can find.

3. TOR

Tor is a step above proxy as it is a scaled version of proxy. By the virtue of the Tor browser users connect to the internet through a network of "volunteer nodes" or servers, chosen at random.

The data passes through at least 3 nodes before the destination. It is also encrypted at each stage, making it impossible for any of the nodes to be aware of what you are up to.

4. Public WIFI

The easiest method on the list you can hide your IP by simply connecting to public Wifi. For the entire duration that you are inline all of the IP addresses will be addressed to the IP address of the cafe, restaurant or airport.

Having said that this network might block using some websites. Moreover, there is also the risk of malicious activity taking place over public Wifi so it is better to use public Wifi that is trustworthy.

5. Prepaid SIM Cards

In most countries, prepaid SIM cards are available for a set amount of money and they can easily be used as a portable hotspot. It is a safe method to use the internet rather than using your home Wifi, and your IP address will be as temporary as the SIM card.