Why do several websites share one IP address?¶
Modern hosting commonly allows many unrelated websites to share one IP address. A match may identify a common provider or platform, but it does not prove common ownership or control.
When a browser connects, it tells the server which hostname it wants. The server or platform then delivers the correct website for that name.
Shared hosting, cloud platforms, website builders, CDNs and reverse proxies can all place many domains behind the same address.
Evidential limits¶
Two domains sharing an address may have no relationship beyond using the same provider. Connected websites may also use different providers or addresses.
Do not use a shared IP as the sole basis for linking domains, suspects or offences.
When the match may help¶
The result may support a connection where there are additional matches, such as:
- customer accounts;
- nameservers;
- certificates;
- analytics identifiers;
- payment destinations;
- contact details; or
- administrative access.
The distinctiveness of the infrastructure matters. A small dedicated environment may carry more weight than an address serving thousands of sites.
Key takeaway
A shared IP address may identify a common technical layer. It does not by itself establish common operation or offending.