What are Native IPs and Broadcast IPs? How to Differentiate Them?

In the realm of proxy IPs, we often hear about native IPs and broadcast IPs. What sets them apart, and how can we distinguish between the two? Let's delve into a detailed explanation.

I. What are Native IPs?

Native IP addresses are real IP addresses assigned directly to users by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) without the need for proxies or forwarding. These IP addresses are directly associated with the user's device or network and are not forwarded or hidden by any intermediate server or proxy. Local IPs typically correspond to the user's physical location or network connection area. They are allocated by ISPs based on the user's network requirements and geographical location to ensure the stability and reliability of network connections.

II. What are Broadcast IPs?

Broadcast IPs, also known as non-native IPs or international IPs, refer to IP addresses whose registered country and the country to which the current server belongs are not consistent. In other words, they are IPs not locally attributed, and through broadcast means, IPs from other international regions are distributed to the location of the available zone. These IPs are usually more affordable and provide a similar network experience to local IPs.

III. How Do They Differ? How to Differentiate?

As mentioned earlier, a native IP refers to an IP whose registered address matches the country where the server is located. Conversely, a broadcast IP has a mismatch between its registered address and the country where the server is situated. This is the main difference. To determine whether an IP is native, you need to choose a proxy IP service provider for testing.

For example, in IPFoxy Global Proxy, most residential IPs are native, while pure native IPs in data centers are relatively rare. It is essential to note that, given the development and migration of data centers over the years, most IP pools have undergone address changes, but some native IPs still exist.

For higher native IP authenticity, it is recommended to use IPFoxy's residential ISP IPs. These IPs are directly collaborated with local ISPs, minimizing the likelihood of migration and ensuring higher native assurance. However, based on feedback from most users, it is evident that the difference between native and non-native IPs is not significant for most business uses.

Common methods to determine whether an IP is native include:

1. Checking WHOIS Information: Use WHOIS lookup tools to find the WHOIS information of the IP address. Local IPs are typically directly assigned to end-users by ISPs, and the ISP's name or related information should be displayed in the WHOIS message. If the WHOIS message shows an ISP, it is likely a native IP.

2. Performing Reverse DNS Lookup: Conduct a reverse DNS lookup to view the domain name associated with the IP address. Native IPs usually have ownership information directly linked to the domain, rather than being relayed through proxy servers or shared services. If the reverse DNS lookup result directly shows the domain name associated with the IP address, it is likely a native IP.

3. Testing Network Latency and Stability: Native IPs generally have lower network latency and better stability since they are directly connected to the backbone of the internet. Using network latency testing tools like ping or Traceroute, if the latency is low and stable, it may be a native IP.

IV. What are the Advantages of Native IPs?

As mentioned earlier, native IPs, which have a registered address matching the country where the server is located, offer several advantages. These include:

1. Authenticity and Trustworthiness: Native IPs are directly assigned by ISPs, ensuring higher reliability and stability in network communication.
2. High-Speed Connection: Due to their direct association with the user's device or network, native IPs can achieve faster connection speeds.
3. Geographical Relevance: Native IP addresses correspond to the user's physical location or network connection area, providing more accurate location information.
4. Less Prone to Blocking: Native IPs, assigned by ISPs, reduce the risk of being blocked or restricted, allowing users more stable access to restricted content or services.
5. Versatility: Directly assigned to users, native IPs are suitable for various applications, including but not limited to web browsing, application development, data collection, remote access, etc.
6. Reliability and Stability: Managed directly by ISPs, native IPs offer higher reliability and stability in network communication.

In conclusion, native IPs boast authenticity, high-speed connections, geographical relevance, reduced susceptibility to blocking, versatility, independent network access provision, reliability, and stability. When choosing the most suitable proxy IP for your business, it's essential to assess your specific business needs, as there is no one-size-fits-all proxy IP – only the most appropriate one for your requirements.