The IP address of a network or device is like a pathway to access the device. Thus, if exposed to the wrong persons – probably phishers or hackers – your device can be monitored remotely and possibly get hacked.
There are many ways your device’s IP address could get exposed to phishers and hackers; one of the commonest ways is visiting insecure, fraud-intended websites. Also, when you try to download torrents without masking your IP address, hackers can track the address and manipulate your device.
But then, there are a few ways to protect your IP address from getting into the wrong hands. This basically means to mask the IP address so that no one else, including your network service provider, can know your actual IP. Particularly, this article focuses on how to hide IP addresses on Android devices.
How To Hide IP Address on Android
1. Using Proxies
A proxy is simply an intermediary server between two devices on a network. So, using a proxy app intercepts your network, and changes/masks your IP address before your connection gets to the other device/network. You don’t need to be pro-tech-savvy to use proxy apps on your Android device.
There are quite different types of proxies, but they perform the same function – forward your network connection without exposing your network properties, particularly, your IP address. On Android, you can configure different proxies for different Wi-Fi networks, including your home network.
How To Setup Proxies On Android Devices
For Wireless Networks:
- Open your Android device’s Settings
- Go to the Wi-Fi settings, then tap and hold the Wi-Fi Network name
- Tap on Modify network
- Click Advanced Options
- Select “Manual” and change the proxy to the one you wish to use (eg. us.smartproxy.com:10101).
- Save the changes
- Repeat these steps to modify the proxies of other WiFi networks you use to connect to the internet.
For Mobile Networks:
These steps apply to those that use their mobile device network to browse the internet.
- Open your Android device Settings
- Go to Network & Internet, or Mobile Networks
- Tap on Mobile network ==> expand the Advanced section ==> Access Point Names
- Tap to edit the Access Point you’re currently using for the internet; on the edit page, change the IP address and Proxy server settings.
Note: to get the IP address and/or Proxy address to change your default addresses, you need to get it from a Proxy server service provider. Some good options include SmartProxy and CactusVPN.
2. Using VPNs
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are the most commonly used tools/apps for hiding IP addresses across devices and systems. There are hundreds of VPN apps for Android users, most of which are available for free.
However, when choosing a VPN, there are certain important things to look out for, such as the number of available server IPs, locations, reliability, and cross-platform compatibility. Well, you don’t need to worry, hereunder are some of the best VPNs for Android device users.
Most Reliable VPNs For Android Users:
- SmartyDNS: Very affordable VPN with multiple reliable servers across diverse locations.
- NordVPN: One of the most popular VPN apps to use across devices, and it’s pretty affordable too.
- WindScribe: Practically the best reliable free VPN service you can install on your Android phones.
3. Contact Your Network Provider To Change Your IP
Yes, you can reach out to your network service provider to change your IP address if you feel like the current IP you’ve got is leaked or being tracked. Your network service provider may require certain details from you before changing your IP address. Even so, most network service providers use dynamic IP addresses; hence, your IP is automatically changed at some point – even without reaching out to them.
What More?
There are many reasons why anyone may want to change or hide their IP addresses. Whatever your reasons are, these three tips shared above are the best way to go about IP address change on Android devices.
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