How to Find IP Address on Mac: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Updated on July 29, 2025, by Xcitium

Ever wondered how to find your IP address on a Mac, whether for troubleshooting, network configuration, or cybersecurity monitoring? Whether you’re an IT professional, cybersecurity manager, or just a curious Mac user, knowing how to locate your Mac IP address is crucial.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything from using Terminal commands to graphical interface options, and even touch on how to find IPs on iPhone, Windows, and via command prompt for comparison. If you’re asking “how to find IP address on Mac,” you’re in the right place.

🔍 What Is an IP Address and Why Does It Matter?

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is your device’s unique identifier on a network. Think of it as your home address—but for the internet. There are two types:

• Public IP Address: Assigned by your ISP for external identification.

• Private IP Address: Used within your local network.

Knowing how to locate your IP can help with:

• Diagnosing connectivity issues

• Setting up VPNs or firewalls

• Enhancing cybersecurity and privacy

• Access control for enterprise devices

📍 How to Find IP Address on Mac (Graphical Method)

The easiest way to find your IP address on a Mac is through System Settings.

Steps:

1. Click the Apple icon > System Settings (or System Preferences in older macOS).

2. Select Network from the sidebar.

3. Choose your active connection (e.g., Wi-Fi or Ethernet).

4. Your IP address will be displayed on the right.

This will show your private IP address (e.g., 192.168.x.x).

💻 Mac IP Address Terminal Command

If you prefer command-line tools, use the Terminal to find your IP quickly.

Open Terminal:

• Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal
  or

• Use Spotlight (Cmd + Space) and type Terminal

Command to Run:

bash

CopyEdit

ipconfig getifaddr en0

This shows the IP address for your Wi-Fi connection. If you’re on Ethernet, use:

bash

CopyEdit

ipconfig getifaddr en1

Alternatively, use:

bash

CopyEdit

ifconfig

This provides detailed info about all network interfaces.

🌐 What Is My IP? (Public vs. Private)

To find your public IP address, you can simply Google:

csharp

CopyEdit

What is my IP

Or use a trusted website like:

• https://whatismyipaddress.com

For Mac users dealing with firewalls, VPNs, or external services, knowing your public IP is just as important as your internal one.

📱 How to Find IP Address on iPhone (for Apple Ecosystem Users)

If you’re managing multiple Apple devices:

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi

2. Tap the (i) icon next to your network

3. Your IP address will be shown under IPv4 Address

🧭 Related Methods for Other Systems

Even though your focus is on Mac, here’s how other systems handle it:

🪟 How to Find IP Address Windows 11:

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet

2. Click Wi-Fi or Ethernet > select active connection

3. Scroll down to view IP address

🧾 How to Get IP Address in CMD:

Open Command Prompt and type:

bash

CopyEdit

ipconfig

You’ll see the IPv4 address of the current adapter.

🛠 Use Cases: Why You Might Need Your IP

• For Cybersecurity Teams: IP auditing, geolocation, access logs

• IT Managers: Network configurations and VPN setups

• General Users: Troubleshooting slow internet or access controls

Knowing how to find and verify your Mac’s IP is foundational for IT hygiene and digital safety.

🧠 Bonus: How to Find All Devices’ IPs on the Same Network (Advanced)

To identify all connected IPs:

1. Open Terminal

2. Use:

bash

CopyEdit

arp -a

This shows a list of IP addresses and MAC addresses of connected devices.

📌 Summary Table: Mac IP Lookup Methods

✅ Best Practices for IP Security

• Use a VPN to mask your public IP.

• Regularly review connected devices on your network.

• Monitor IP access logs on routers or firewalls.

• Change IP manually (Static IP) if needed for advanced network setups.

📢 FAQ: How to Find IP Address on Mac

1. How do I find my IP address on a Mac using Terminal?

Use ipconfig getifaddr en0 for Wi-Fi or en1 for Ethernet.

2. What is the difference between public and private IP?

Public IP is for internet identification; private IP is used inside your local network.

3. Can I find IP address for all devices on my network?

Yes, use the command arp -a in Terminal to see all connected devices.

4. How do I find my IP address on iPhone?

Go to Settings > Wi-Fi > tap your network > view IPv4 Address.

5. Is it safe to share my IP address?

While not inherently dangerous, avoid sharing it unnecessarily—especially your public IP.

🚀 Final Thoughts

Finding your IP address on a Mac is essential for network troubleshooting, security monitoring, or system configuration. With both graphical and command-line options, Mac users have flexibility and control.

Whether you’re setting up a secure workspace or just curious about your connection, knowing how to find IP address on Mac empowers you to take charge of your network environment.

✅ Ready to Take Network Security Further?

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