Why your IP address changes
A public IP is not guaranteed to be permanent unless you pay for a static assignment. Consumer internet, mobile data, VPNs, and failover paths all change addresses routinely.
- Why dynamic addressing is normal.
- Why mobile and VPN addresses change more often.
- Why different tests may show different results.
ISP addressing
Many residential providers use dynamic leases or pool reassignment.
A reboot, modem event, or ISP maintenance window can move you to a different address.
Mobile behavior
Mobile carriers often use carrier-grade NAT, pool rotation, and centralized gateways.
That makes the public address much less stable than a home fiber or business circuit.
VPNs and proxies
A VPN can change your IP immediately because the egress point changes.
Different VPN servers or protocols may also show different address families.
What to compare
Reload WhenIP on your normal connection and after enabling a VPN.
Check IPv4 and IPv6 separately because one family may remain stable while the other changes.
Can I stop my IP from changing?
Usually only by paying for a static address or using a fixed tunnel exit.
Why does only IPv4 change sometimes?
Because IPv4 and IPv6 are often assigned and routed differently.
Last updated: March 29, 2026