Did you know that you can change your IP address to almost any location in the world? So long as there are proxy or VPN servers in the country you want your IP to be from, you can use either of these online tools to hide your real IP, and use a different one to replace it. You can use a Polish proxy to browse the internet with a Polish IP address, or use a Polish VPN to virtually move your entire phone or computer to Poland. Both are available on the internet, and neither require extra hardware.

Internet Browsing

To browse the internet with a Polish IP address, you can use both a proxy and a VPN. Proxies are more well known, and probably more widely used. They're free a lot of the time, and when they're not free, they're generally a bit cheaper that VPNs. Open proxies can be used to alter the IP of your internet browser, and Firefox, IE, Chrome, Opera, and probably any other smaller browsers have manual proxy settings that can be used in combination with open proxy servers. This is a good solution for secure browsing on public internet, when you don't have the option to download and install software.

There are many disadvantages to using proxies though. For one, open proxies present a major security risk to your personal accounts and your internet device. By signing into a proxy server you're essentially putting your online privacy in the hands of the proxy owner. Can you really trust anything that's anonymous, AND free? Probably not. Another disadvantage is that this only changes the IP of your browsing and other web based activity.

Virtually Reside in Poland

Virtual private networks provide a much more comprehensive solution to changing your IP address. A VPN creates a virtual tunnel, transporting your encrypted data to a VPN server in Poland. This changes the IP of all apps, programs, software, browsing, games, VoIP, and whatever else you do online. You can play games with a polish IP. You can access Polish-only website and stream video through Polish streaming sites. You can download with a Polish IP. For all intents and purposes, you computer or phone is in Poland.

VPNs can be used on your smartphone and computer. I would suggest using PPTP VPN for fast server connections. If you're looking for extra privacy and security for your online activities, you can use L2TP or OpenVPN. These three versions of VPN are available and 99% of VPN services, and some places may allow you to switch freely between them, and use the VPN on multiple devices, so long as you're not running two devices at the same time. PPTP and L2TP VPN can be used on Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, and Linux computers. OpenVPN can only be used on Mac, Windows, and Linux.

If you want to use a Polish IP address on your gaming console or internet TV, you may have to purchase a VPN router, but these have notoriously slow connections. Still, it's an option for using a VPN connection for multiple users at the same time. You can also set up the VPN connection on your laptop, and hook your TV or console up to your laptop. The is a great way to access geo-restricted streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu outside The US on Xbox 360, PS3, or Apple TV.

Remember that not all VPN services have VPN servers in Poland. Be sure to check that your service offers options in Poland. Most services will have their basic package including US and UK servers, with the option to change your IP to other country locations, in this case, Poland. Other services may require that you only choose one location, and you will not be able to switch to other countries. Be sure to get the kind of service that suits your particular needs.