Get Real User IP Without Installing Cloudflare Apache Module

When using Cloudflare, you will notice that the REMOTE_ADDR variable no longer displays the correct user IP. Since Cloudflare acts as a proxy, the IP will always be a Cloudflare IP. If you have any code such as user votes that are using the IP as a unique way to stop users voting multiple times, you will find that this code is no longer working correctly. The solution to this is to install the Apache module which will correctly resolve the IPs that are being sent from Cloudflare. There is currently no module for Centos 7 and a few other operating systems which leaves us stuck. I looked into the issue and found that there is already a way to access the users IP without installing anything.

If you are using a language like PHP, dump out the server variables using a command such as var_dump($_SERVER); This will allow you to see all of the server variables that you currently have access to. You will see that there are a few new variables that are not normally there. The important variable here is HTTP_CF_CONNECTING_IP. This variable contains the actual user IP that would normally have been present in the REMOTE_ADDR variable. You will also find that the HTTP_X_FORWARDED_FOR variable also contains the exact same value.

This is a quick solution for anyone writing code that is depending on the IP being correct. If you are using any software that you didnt write, you might still be in trouble as this is difficult to change.

Related Articles

Related Questions

Best Dictation Apps for Writing a Book

My dad is working on writing a book, but he's having a tough time typing it out. We've got him a dictaphone and a...

Has the 4o Model’s Performance Dropped Recently?

I've been wondering if anyone else has noticed a drop in the 4o model's intelligence over the past few weeks. I can't tell if...

Why Aren’t My WordPress Changes Going Live?

I've been running my author website on Bluehost, but recently, any changes I make—like updating cover images or adding reviews—aren't showing up unless I'm...

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Latest Tools

Online Hash Generator – String to Hash Converter

Need to quickly generate a hash from a string? Whether you're verifying file integrity, securing data, or just experimenting with cryptographic tools, this simple...

Convert CSV To HTML Table

Need to quickly turn CSV data into an HTML table? Whether you're copying data from Excel, Google Sheets, or another spreadsheet, this tool makes...

Student Group Randomizer

Creating fair and balanced groups in the classroom can be time-consuming — especially when you're trying to avoid repetition, manage different skill levels, or...

Random Group Generator

Need to split a list of people, items, or ideas into random groups? Our free Random Group Generator makes it quick and easy. Whether...

Flip Text Upside Down – Free Online Tool

Ever wanted to flip your text upside down just for fun or to grab someone’s attention in a creative way? This free online Upside...

Raffle Ticket Generator

If you're running a fundraiser, charity draw, or local event and need raffle tickets fast, this free online tool lets you generate and print...

Latest Posts

Latest Questions