What a VPN changes
A virtual private network creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server. Internet requests leave through that server, so websites normally see the server's public IP address instead of the public address assigned to your home, mobile or office connection.
The approximate location shown by an IP checker may also move to the country or city associated with the VPN server. That estimate describes the server's network, not your device's physical position.
What a VPN does not automatically hide
Changing an IP address does not make a browser anonymous. A signed-in account, cookies, browser storage, device characteristics and information you submit can still connect activity across visits.
A VPN provider can also observe some connection information. Choose a reputable service, read its privacy policy and keep the application updated. Free services may have different business models and data practices from paid services.
- The VPN server's public IP is visible to websites
- Account logins can still identify you
- Device GPS is separate from IP-based location
- HTTPS still protects traffic between your browser and secure websites
Why the address may not change
If the same public address appears before and after connecting, the VPN tunnel may not be active, the browser may be using split tunneling or the test result may have been cached. Disconnect and reconnect, then refresh the checker.
IPv4 and IPv6 can follow different paths. A VPN that handles only IPv4 may leave IPv6 traffic outside the tunnel. A reliable VPN client should document whether it supports IPv6 or disables it while connected.
VPNs, proxies and private browsing
A proxy forwards selected application traffic and may change the visible IP for that traffic. A VPN usually routes a broader set of device traffic through an encrypted tunnel.
Private or incognito browser mode primarily limits local history and storage after the window closes. By itself, it does not change the public IP address presented to websites.