If I have someone else's IP address, what info can I find out about them and how?

Question

Thanks for answering!

Answer 1

Every packet from your computer (and mine) contains its current IP address. How do you think all the packets find their way?

So, there are dozens of programs (including many sites on the Internet) that will report the registered owner of the IP address of any packet (the Internet Service Provider is likely the registered owner) and other information which is normally but optionally 'reported' by your browser, such as what operating system and Internet browser is in use.

But your location? No, only the main location of the ISP can be determined from the IP address. Try the links provided by other answerers and you will see. I'm reported as being from Dallas, and I'm not even in that state!

Google (or Yahoo) for 'packet sniffer'.

BTW, my computer is totally immune from ill-intentioned outsiders. It runs Linux, properly configured. Only the uninformed spend time trying to 'break in' to Linux systems - because Windows is so easy, and the result of 'breaking in' to Windows can give total control to the breaker. Not so with Linux. Break in (congratulations on a very difficult task) and what you get is practically nothing - certainly nothing in terms of control unless the system is almost purposely misconfigured.

Answer 2

You can find out what city and state they live in. WITH: http://www.ip2location.com/?AfID=17800

Answer 3

Without a password, not much.

Answer 4

Basically their location and their ISP.