How to Find My IP Address: The Ultimate Guide for Windows, Mac, and Kali Linux

Learn how to quickly find your local and public IP address on Windows, macOS, and Kali Linux. A step-by-step guide covering Command Prompt, Terminal, and System Settings methods.

Amos Peter

Dec 31, 2025 - 18:22

find my IP address

Whether you are setting up a home server, troubleshooting a slow internet connection, or diving into cybersecurity with Kali Linux, knowing your IP address is a fundamental skill.

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique string of numbers that identifies your device on a network. Think of it as your computer's "home address" for the digital world.

In this guide, we will break down exactly how to find your IP address on the three most popular operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Kali Linux.

1. How to Find IP Address on Windows (10 & 11)

Windows offers two main ways to check your IP: the user-friendly Settings menu and the faster Command Prompt method.

Method A: The "Hacker Style" (Command Prompt)

This is the fastest method and works on almost every version of Windows.

Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard.
Type cmd and hit Enter.
In the black window, type the following command and press Enter:
DOS
```
ipconfig
```
Look for the line that says IPv4 Address.
- Example: 192.168.1.15

Method B: The Visual Way (Settings)

Go to Start > Settings > Network & internet.
Click on Wi-Fi (or Ethernet if you are plugged in).
Select Hardware properties.
Your IP address will be listed next to IPv4 address.

2. How to Find IP Address on macOS

Finding your IP on a Mac is sleek and simple, whether you prefer the interface or the Terminal.

Method A: System Settings (Ventura & Later)

Click the Apple Menu () > System Settings.
Click Network in the sidebar.
Click the Wi-Fi box (or your active connection).
Click the Details... button.
You will see your IP address listed under the TCP/IP tab.

Method B: The Terminal Command

For a quick check without clicking through menus:

Press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight Search.
Type Terminal and hit Enter.
Type this command to get your Wi-Fi IP immediately:
Bash
```
ipconfig getifaddr en0
```
(Note: If you are on Ethernet, try en1 instead of en0).

3. How to Find IP Address on Kali Linux

If you are using Kali Linux, you are likely comfortable with the terminal. Here are the standard commands used by security professionals.

Method A: The Modern Command

Linux distributions are moving away from old tools. The standard modern command is:

Bash

ip a

Look for: The interface named eth0 (Ethernet) or wlan0 (Wi-Fi).
Find: The numbers following the word inet.

Method B: The "Old School" Command

Many tutorials still reference this, though it is technically deprecated:

Bash

ifconfig

Tip: If you get a "command not found" error, you may need to run sudo apt install net-tools, but stick to ip a for better habits!

Method C: The Cleanest Output

If you want only the IP addresses without the messy details:

Bash

hostname -I

4. Crucial Concept: Private vs. Public IP

It is vital to understand that your computer has two IP addresses.

IP Type	Description	Who sees it?
Private (Local) IP	Assigned by your router. Usually starts with `192.168.x.x` or `10.x.x.x`.	Only devices in your home/office.
Public IP	Assigned by your ISP (Internet Service Provider).	The entire internet (websites, servers).

How to Find Your Public IP (All OS)

The commands above (like ipconfig) only show your Private IP. To find your Public IP, you must ask an external server.

Browser Method: simply search Google for "What is my IP".
Command Line Method (Mac/Linux/Windows PowerShell):
Type the following command:
Bash
```
curl ifconfig.me
```

Conclusion

Finding your IP address is the first step in mastering your network. Whether you are gaming on Windows, designing on a Mac, or pentesting on Kali Linux, these commands are essential tools in your digital arsenal.