Quick answer
Your IP address can change when your ISP uses dynamic addressing, when you switch networks, when your router reconnects, or when a VPN or proxy is active. That is often normal, not a sign of a problem.
Why IP addresses change
An IP address is tied to a connection, not to a person. Many providers assign addresses dynamically, which means the visible public IP can change over time without you doing anything unusual.
The change can happen because your router reconnects, your ISP rotates the address pool, or your device moves from Wi-Fi to mobile data.
Common reasons it happens
Dynamic ISP addressing
Many home and mobile providers rotate public IPs periodically or after reconnects.
Wi-Fi to mobile switch
Wi-Fi uses your home network IP, while mobile data uses your carrier's public IP.
VPN or proxy use
A VPN intentionally replaces the public IP websites see with the VPN server's IP.
Carrier or shared network routing
Shared networks can move traffic through different gateways, which changes the public IP shown online.
When a changing IP matters
A changing IP is usually fine for normal browsing. It matters more if you are trying to test VPN behavior, troubleshoot an account that expects a stable IP, or understand why a website keeps showing a different city.
In those cases, compare the IP before and after the network change so you can see exactly what changed.
Check your current IP first
Use the live tool to see your public IPv4, IPv6, and browser exposure, then compare it again after switching networks or connecting a VPN.
Frequently asked questions
Does a changing IP mean I was hacked?
No. In most cases it just means your provider or network assigned a new public address.
Will restarting my router change my IP?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on your ISP's addressing system and how long the lease lasts.