IP address, MAC address, and strange behavior patterns observed.
IP address, MAC address, and strange behavior patterns observed.
Hey everyone, this is me again... I’m trying to understand what’s happening. I’m using a 4G router or dongle to connect my laptop, since the signal in my room isn’t strong enough for a stable connection. The internet works just fine and the speeds aren’t terrible. But while browsing a modding site, I downloaded some mods and they didn’t function properly—some looked bad or didn’t work at all. I posted my comments about them, mentioning that some creators were unrealistic, and one of them was a moderator who got banned. After that, I changed my IP address and Mac address using the dongle, but the issue persisted.
I searched online for ways to modify my IP or Mac address, thinking it might help avoid being banned. I tried swapping the USB extension from three to two, which changed my IP temporarily. When I put the card back in the dongle, the IP returned to its old state, but the phone still showed a different IP. So it seems changing the cable or extensions could affect my IP.
I’m wondering if altering the hardware ID would also impact things. If they detect a new account or changed hardware, they might block me instantly. I also noticed that after a Windows update and driver changes, my game performance dropped significantly—from 60+ FPS on GTX 1060 to only 20-25 FPS on RTX 3060.
I’m not sure if this helps with the IP ban problem, but I’m trying to figure it out. If you have any tips or advice, please share. Otherwise, just ignore this and keep working on your mods! Thanks a lot!
You generally cannot influence the IP address assigned by the service provider. It often changes randomly when conditions shift, and not all providers offer consistent assignments. Some ISPs periodically rearrange the IPs they employ. Many external devices that connect to the internet use fixed MAC addresses for identification. Certain gadgets employ random MAC addresses as a security measure, allowing them to mimic a different device even if the number is available. This can trick the provider into thinking a new device is connected. However, they might still assign the same IP if you simply made it accessible. You have limited control unless you directly contact your ISP to request manual changes. Such actions are rare unless you have a dedicated contract or manage servers yourself.
Clear and logical. Your IP has already shifted, so unless you make further adjustments, it should stay updated. Reconnecting with all three USB extensions usually restores it to its original state. Changing the dongle settings can help, but multiple device changes may be needed for a complete reset. A fresh combo of USB ports should indeed shuffle the MAC address and bring the IP back as expected.
If you search online for "whats my IP," the same information appears as shown by the device you're using. It lacks typical router behavior and only displays basic details like your public IP, phone number, ISP location, signal strength, and so on. The only way to verify your local IP is through Windows, which I’m familiar with from past experiences working with local LAN servers in games like Minecraft. I understand this won’t interfere with external connections. So far, everything seems fine. I don’t want to risk anything, but I’ve created a new account using a different email and haven’t noticed any bans. It’s frustrating when moderators seem to ban people without clear justification. I think it’s reasonable to change the IP if it’s that simple. This experience makes me wonder about the purpose of VPNs—knowing this wouldn’t work on a standard network with a router or LAN cable, but easily changing IPs with a dongle feels like a game mechanic from a past horror title. I don’t think it would be possible in real life since authorities would likely track you through your ISP’s records.