How to Change the IP Address on a Mac

Two Methods:Changing the IP AddressUsing a Proxy Server

Changing your IP address can be useful if you want to avoid being attacked by other users who are targeting your IP address, or if you simply want a new online identity from an IP standpoint. You can change your IP address on a Mac at any time through System Preferences.

Method 1
Changing the IP Address

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    Click on the Apple logo and select “System Preferences.”
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    Click on the “Network” icon.
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    Click on the network type you’re using in the left sidebar of the System Preferences window. For example, if you’re using a Wi-Fi connection, click on “Wi-Fi.”
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    Click on the “Advanced” button at the bottom right corner of System Preferences.
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    Click on the tab labeled “TCP / IP.”
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    Click on the dropdown menu next to “Configure IPv4,” and select “Using DHCP with manual address.”
    • Alternately, you can click on “Renew DHCP Lease” to have your computer automatically generate a new IP address for you.[1]
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    Enter your desired IP address into the field labeled, “IPv4 Address.”
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    Click on “OK,” then on “Apply.” Your IP address will now be changed.[2]

Method 2
Using a Proxy Server

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    Click on the Apple logo and select “System Preferences.”
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    Click on the “Network” icon.
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    Click on your network type in the left sidebar of the System Preferences window.
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    Click on “Advanced,” then click on the “Proxies” tab.
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    Place a checkmark next to your desired protocol under “Select a protocol to configure.”
    • Select “SOCKS Proxy” if you are unsure about which protocol to choose. The “SOCKS Proxy” protocol is often used to route network packets between clients and servers through a proxy, and is effective at boosting general security and hiding the client address of applications.
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    Enter the IP address of the desired proxy server into the blank field at the top of System Preferences.
    • If using a SOCKS proxy, navigate to the SOCKS proxy list at http://sockslist.net/ to select a type 4 or type 5 IP address.
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    Click on “OK,” then click on “Apply.” You will now be connected to the proxy server indicated.

Tips

  • If you want to block or mask your existing IP address, consider using a proxy server instead of changing your IP address. Keep in mind that using a proxy server may slow down your Internet speed, but will help keep your online identity anonymous without requiring you to change your IP address.

Sources and Citations

  1. ↑ http://osxdaily.com/2013/02/11/renew-dhcp-lease-mac-os-x/
  2. ↑ http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-change-your-ip-address/

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