What your ASN reveals
Your ASN shows what kind of network you are on. An ISP ASN points to a residential or mobile connection, while a hosting or data-center ASN suggests a VPN, proxy, or server. Abstract's IP Intelligence API returns the ASN type and flags such as is_vpn and is_hosting so services can tell these apart. The difference between operator-owned and private numbers is covered in public vs private ASNs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my ASN?
Your ASN is the Autonomous System Number of the network routing your current IP address, usually your internet provider's network.
How do I find my own ASN?
Look up your current IP address in an ASN lookup tool. It returns the ASN of the network that operates your connection, along with the operator's name and type.
Do I have my own personal ASN?
No. ASNs identify entire networks, not individual users. The ASN you see belongs to your ISP or the operator that announces your IP block.
Why does my ASN show my internet provider?
Because your provider owns and routes the IP address you browse from, so its ASN is the one announced for your connection.
Can my ASN reveal that I am using a VPN?
Often, yes. If your IP belongs to a hosting or data-center ASN rather than a residential ISP, that is a strong sign the connection is a VPN, proxy, or server.
