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Here’s how to hide your IP address in Windows XP
7 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Windows XP support was discontinued a long time ago and this once beloved Windows system is out of the picture for the majority of users.
However, there are still some nostalgics thatfind it the best-suited for the job, due to low requirements and compatibility with antiquated components. And those folks need their privacy boxes checked, too.
One of the main reasons why even the most faithful followers are considering upgrade lies in the fact thatWindows XP isn’t all that safe to useanymore.
Security-wise, you’ll have a hard time to protect your data and privacy while using Windows XP. However, there are ways to, at least, improve it. The first step is tohide your IP address.
For that purpose, we prepared a few instructions on how to hide yourIP addressin Windows XP. Make sure to check them out below.
But first, let’s not skip on the importance of this procedure and how much it means in the modern-day web surfing. By hiding yourIP address, you prevent ISP or other trackers to take a hold of your personal data and location.
With some tools, likeVPNs, you switch your ISP-providedIP addresswith any given servers’ IP.
What’s anIP address? It’s the randomly generated identification provided by your ISP. It’s different for every user. YourIP addressleaves traces wherever you go while surfing.
Some sites will track your IP and use your geo-location and online behavior to create a profile or pattern if you will, of your online endeavors. And some folks (including us) don’t like to share personal data with corporate snoops.
In addition, some sites provide geo-restricted content. In case you’re not from the supported country or a region, you won’t be able to access that content.
Luckily, withVPN,proxy, or Tor, you should be able to hurdle over those restrictions and enjoy free internet like it’s supposed to be.
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How can I hide my IP address in Windows XP?
1. Use VPN service
Now, this here is a touchy subject. We’re all aware of the massive growth of theVPNservices market. However, not many top-rated solutions support Windows XP. The industry is just giving up on Windows XP for obvious reasons.
Even Microsoft discontinued the support for Windows XP.
For the apparent reasons, you can choose to upgrade to a later Windows version or check out the scarce number ofVPNsthat support Windows XP.
With the reliableVPNsolution, you should be able to replace your IP address with various different dedicated servers based in various locations. When it comes to the dilemma of whether to use paid or freeVPNsolutions, make sure to check our insight on the matterhere.
Install ExpressVPN
One highly-rated solution available for Windows XP is no other thanExpressVPN, a trusted leader in theVPNindustry that guarantees to offer you supreme privacy without taking a toll on your PC’s performances.
Speaking about performances, we all know that XP is no longer the latest and greatest OS for a long time now. This is why speed is quintessential andExpressVPNbrings unlimited-bandwidth, and ultra-fast servers with global coverage.
ExpressVPNhides yourIP addressand encrypts your network data so that you can stay secure and anonymous every time you go online, plus it does so for every single device you own under a single subscription.
Packed with the best-in-class encryption and leak proofing tools, thisVPNis your trusted partner in fighting hackers and spies. Additional security-oriented tools like DNS Leak Test, WebRTC Leak Test, Password Generator, and a 10-Step Security Check are included.
ExpressVPN
2. Change your IP with the Command Prompt trick
Back in the days, when Windows XP was at its peak, some knowledgeable users found the way to hide yourIP addresswith a few simple steps in Command Prompt.
However, there’s a limitation to a number of times you can switch yourIP addressto an alternative. This probably won’t work on later iterations of Windows OS, but it seems that it did well for XP users in the not so distant past.
Follow the instructions below to change your defaultIP addresswith a new one that’s randomly generated in Windows XP:
That’s it. Your personalIP addressshould change after these steps.
3. Give the Proxy server a go
BesidesVPNs, there’s also aproxy serverthat can come in handy. To get things straight,Proxyisn’t the same as aVPN.
Virtual Private Network covers the whole device connection, whileproxiesare mainly linked with browsers. Nonetheless, due to a lack of choice in theVPNdepartment, you might want to reconsider using aproxyinstead ofVPN.
Proxyis the middleman between you and the site you want to access. It takes your IP address and replaces it with the public one which makes tracking almost impossible.
There are plenty ofProxy serversout there, both free and premium versions. In comparison toVPNsolutions, you can most certainly use the majority of proxy solutions.
Here’s the list of the most popular ones:
Need a hand to set up a globalproxy serverin Windows 10? Check outthis step-by-step guide.
4. Try Tor browser
Finally, we can’t overlook the most secure browser out there you’ve probably heard of whenever someone brings privacy into the conversation.
Yes, it’s theTor browser. Tor (The Onion Router) is the open-source internet privacy project packed in one multi-functional browser.
It does slow down your connection a bit but it provides users with almost complete anonymity. Furthermore, you can use it for accessing the Dark Web (or Deep Web) if you’re into that.
Nonetheless, this program is completely free and should work on the Windows XP platform without any issues. You can download theTor browserhere.
Check out this guide and learn how to download and use the Tor Browser on Windows 10.
That should do it. If you’re still a proud owner of Windows XP and want to keep up with the times and protect your privacy, these instructions should do you justice.
Also, don’t forget to share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below.
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More about the topics:IP address,VPN,windows XP
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
Aleksandar’s main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always spots the next big thing surrounding Microsoft and the Windows OS.
Focused on Windows errors and how to solve them, he also writes about the OS’s latest features as well as its interface.
In his free time, he likes to read, listen to music, and enjoy the nature. Hiking is one of his newly found passions.
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