How to change your IP address when browsing the Internet (Firefox)

When you browse the internet, your IP address reveals a lot of information about you. Based on it, websites and online services can determine details like your approximate location, internet service provider, an estimated zip code, and even your browser's user agent string. If you want to change your IP address, you can modify this fingerprint, which could otherwise be used to track your activity or block you from accessing certain content.

Changing your IP address by using a proxy server is a simple and effective way to protect your online identity. It allows you to browse anonymously, hiding your real location, and bypass geographical restrictions imposed by various websites or applications. This allows you to access content that is unavailable in your region or use services that are exclusive to other countries.

Additionally, using a proxy gives you more control over your privacy, allowing you to decide how and where you want your online presence to appear, without requiring complex technical knowledge. It is an affordable solution for anyone who wants to maintain their freedom and flexibility in the digital environment.

If you are curious to find out what data you share with a website you access, visit “Show My IP" and you will find information about your computer or phone's IP, approximate location, internet provider, and the browser you are using.

How can you change your IP address in the Firefox browser (Windows PC or Mac)

If you are a Firefox user and need to change your IP address when browsing the internet, follow the steps below, regardless of whether you are a Firefox user. Windows PC or Mac.

1. First you need to find a Proxy Server IP. If you need to use an IP from another country, go to ProxyNova.com and choose an IP with a good connection.

For example, if you are from a European country but want to appear on the internet as being from an Asian country, you can change your IP address to one assigned to Indonesia. In my example, I chose 121.101.135.94:8089 on ProxyNova.

2. Open the Firefox browser and look for network settings. Network Settings.

2. In the connection settings, choose manual configuration. You must enter both the IP address (HTTP Proxy) and the port on which it operates.

Also, if you choose an IP Proxy that only supports TCP connections and does not offer user-password authentication, you must select SOCKS v4.

As a side note, SOCKS5 is an improved version that supports both TCP and UDP, provides authentication (username and password), and can better handle connections through firewalls and NAT. Most of the time, using such proxy IPs also requires purchasing a subscription.

3. Click the “OK” button to save the changes.

This way you have managed to change the IP address with which you browse the internet. Access again "Show My IP” to check if the IP address has been changed to the one you set.

Caution!

Although this method helps you hide your online identity and access websites, social networks (X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) to which you have restricted access in your region, it is not recommended to use public IP proxy lists, such as those on ProxyNova, for authenticated sessions or online payment systems.

Why is it unsafe to use public IP proxies?

1. Lack of trust and securityPublic proxies are managed by unknown third parties, which means that you have no guarantee that your traffic is not being intercepted, logged, or modified. Basically, the connection made through a proxy can be easily intercepted by the person who owns the proxy server.

2. The risk of Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacksAn insecure proxy can intercept your traffic and even inject malicious code or steal sensitive data, such as passwords and banking information. Do not use an IP proxy to access websites that require authentication, let alone to access online payment systems.

3. Reduced speed and stabilityPublic proxies are overloaded and can have high latency or disconnect during the session. This can lead to errors in online transactions.

4. Possibility of being blacklisted – Many public proxies are already blacklisted, which means that some websites and banking services will automatically detect and block them.

Related: How to activate or deactivate iCloud Private Relay on your Mac, iPhone or iPad.

Alternatives to public IP proxy lists

If you need to hide your IP for authenticated sessions or online payments, you need to choose more secure solutions.

Trusted VPNA premium VPN service encrypts your traffic and offers secure servers.

Private or premium proxyDedicated proxies are more secure than public ones.

Conclusion

It is relatively easy to change your IP address and this method can be useful for anonymizing and accessing geo-restricted content. However, using public proxies comes with major security risks, especially for authenticated sessions or online transactions. For real data protection, it is recommended to opt for a reliable VPN or a private proxy. Always choose the solution that offers you security, stability and privacy!