Finding your IP address on a Mac is a fundamental task for troubleshooting network issues, setting up local servers, or configuring security software. Every device connected to a network requires a unique identifier, and your Mac is no different. This identifier, known as an Internet Protocol address, allows other devices to send and receive data specifically to your machine. Whether you are using macOS Sonoma, Ventura, or an older version, the process is streamlined and accessible through the System Settings or the Terminal.
Understanding IP Addresses: Local vs. Public
Before you begin the search, it is important to understand the two main types of addresses you might be looking for. Your Mac has a Local IP address, also known as a private IP, which is used within your home or office network to communicate with your router and other devices. This is the address you will likely need for file sharing, printer access, or remote desktop connections. In contrast, your Public IP address is the one your router uses to communicate with the broader internet; this is usually a single address shared by all devices in your household. For most internal configuration tasks, you will be seeking the Local IP address.
Finding Your IP Address via System Settings
The most visual and user-friendly method to find your IP address is through the System Settings application. This graphical interface requires no technical knowledge and provides immediate results without the need to decipher command-line text. You can access this information in just a few clicks, making it the go-to method for the average user.
Steps for macOS Ventura and Later
Click the Apple logo located in the top-left corner of your screen.
Select "System Settings" from the dropdown menu.
In the left-hand sidebar, click on "Network."
Select the active connection from the list on the right (this will usually be labeled "Wi-Fi" or "Ethernet" and show a green status indicator).
Your IP address will be displayed directly beneath the connection status, labeled as "IP address."
Steps for macOS Monterey and Earlier
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.
Select "System Preferences" and then click "Network."
Choose your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) from the list on the left.
Click the "Advanced" button and navigate to the "TCP/IP" tab.
Your IP address will be listed next to "IP Address."
Locating Your IP Address via Terminal
For users who prefer command-line efficiency or need to script network diagnostics, the Terminal offers a direct path to your IP data. This method is favored by IT professionals because it is fast and provides a clear output without navigating through multiple menus. You can use specific commands to target either the local network interface or the external-facing address.
Using the ipconfig Command
The getifaddr command is the simplest way to retrieve your local IP address via Terminal. This command queries the network interface directly and returns the numerical address immediately. To use it, follow these steps:
Open the Terminal application, which you can find in Applications > Utilities.
Type the following command and press Enter: ipconfig getifaddr en0 .
If you are connected via Wi-Fi, the output will be your local IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.5). If you are connected via Ethernet, you may need to use ipconfig getifaddr en1 or check both.
