When you visit a website, it can usually guess where you’re located - just from your IP address.
But how accurate is that guess? Can it really pinpoint your house? Or just your city?
Let’s break it down.
What Can an IP Address Reveal?
Your IP address is assigned by your internet provider (ISP), and it gives away a few clues by default:
- Your country
- Your region or city
- Your ISP or network provider
Websites use this info to:
- Show local content
- Choose language settings
- Block access by country
- Personalize ads or pricing
You can see what your IP reveals about you on the Show IP homepage.
But How Accurate Is the Location?
That depends on a few things - but here’s the general idea:
| Type of IP | Accuracy (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Home broadband | City or region | Usually within 10–50 km |
| Mobile data | Regional at best | Can change frequently |
| VPN or proxy | Location of server | Not your real location |
| Corporate or shared networks | Company HQ or provider hub | Often far off |
📍 Does it show your exact address?
No. IP geolocation is not like GPS.
It doesn’t track you physically - it uses public IP databases to guess where an address might be located. Sometimes it’s spot on. Other times it’s way off.
Example: A mobile IP might show you’re in another city altogether.
Why Does It Change?
Your IP-based location can vary depending on:
- Your ISP’s routing setup
- Whether you’re using Wi-Fi, mobile data, or a VPN
- If your IP was reassigned recently
- How accurate the IP database is (some update monthly, some don’t)
If your IP shows the wrong place, here’s more on why your IP shows the wrong location.
Can It Be Used to Track Me?
Not precisely.
While your IP can suggest a general area (like your city), it’s not enough on its own to identify you personally. But combined with browser fingerprinting or cookies, it can contribute to tracking over time.
What is a WebRTC leak - and can it expose your real IP?
Want to Hide or Change Your IP Location?
A VPN can mask your real IP and replace it with one from a location you choose.
Check if your VPN is actually working or explore free VPNs.
Summary
IP-based location is roughly accurate, but rarely exact.
- It’s good enough to show your city
- It won’t reveal your home address
- It can be wrong - especially on mobile or VPNs
Still curious? See what your IP reveals now - head to the homepage.
Photo by Michał Turkiewicz on Unsplash