Private and special-use addressing
What is the 169.254.0.0/16 address range?
IPv4 link-local space used when a device cannot obtain a normal address or for tightly scoped local services.
Common examples
169.254.1.1169.254.169.254What it is used for
IPv4 link-local space used when a device cannot obtain a normal address or for tightly scoped local services.
Why it is not a public location
Addresses in this page are not globally routable public destinations. A location database cannot use them to identify a country, city, ISP customer or home address on the public internet.
Safe use and troubleshooting
Open a router address only while connected to your own or an authorised network. Check the router label or manual, use HTTPS when available, change default passwords and never publish admin credentials.
Frequently asked questions
Can private IP addresses appear on many networks?
Yes. The same private address can be reused independently in millions of homes and organisations.
Can a website see my private IP?
A normal website usually sees the public address used by your connection. Modern browsers restrict local-address exposure, although local apps and network tools may know it.
Should arbitrary private-IP passport pages be indexed?
No. Arbitrary private addresses have no unique public owner or location. This educational page is indexable, while thin per-address reports remain noindex, follow.
Is a private address evidence of a VPN?
No. Private addressing is normal inside local networks. VPNs may also assign private addresses, but the address alone does not prove VPN use.