Does the Internet Archive Store IP Addresses?

Kaudo

Many users rely on the Internet Archive for research, digital preservation, or content recovery. But with growing concerns about online privacy, it is reasonable to ask if Internet Archive collects or stores IP addresses. Here is what is publicly known about how the Internet Archive handles user data, including IP addresses.

The Internet Archive Logs Requests

Like most web servers, the Internet Archive logs incoming requests. These logs typically include standard connection data:

IP address of the requesting client
Date and time of the request
Requested URL
User-agent (browser or script information)
Referrer (if applicable)

This information is used to monitor traffic, detect abuse, maintain services, and improve performance.

How Long Are IP Addresses Stored?

The Internet Archive does not publicly disclose exactly how long it retains IP addresses in server logs. However, based on statements from the organization and observed behavior, it appears that logs are stored for operational and security purposes, not for tracking individuals long-term.

Some logs may be retained temporarily, while anonymized or summarized data may be kept for longer periods to support analytics and infrastructure planning.

Are IP Addresses Tied to Archive Searches?

When you search the Wayback Machine or view an archived page, your IP address may be recorded temporarily in standard logs. However, the Internet Archive has stated in public forums that it does not use this data to profile users or track their activity across sessions.

Unlike commercial ad platforms, archive.org is not designed to build behavioral profiles. Its core mission is preservation, not surveillance.

Can Logs Be Accessed by Others?

The Internet Archive is a nonprofit based in the United States. Like any U.S.-based organization, it may be required to disclose logs or specific data in response to a valid legal request, such as a court order or subpoena.

That said, there is no evidence that the Archive shares routine logs with commercial entities, and it is not part of any advertising or tracking network.

What About Uploaders?

If you upload content to the Internet Archive, your IP address may be associated with that activity in the backend system. Again, this is standard for any hosting or upload service. The Archive does not display this information publicly, but it may retain it for administrative or moderation purposes.

How to Use the Archive Privately

If you prefer to use the Internet Archive without sharing your IP address:

Use a VPN to mask your real IP
Access the site through the Tor Browser
Avoid logging into a user account if anonymity is important

These steps are general best practices for any privacy-conscious browsing, not unique to archive.org.

The Final Answer?

Yes, the Internet Archive collects IP addresses as part of standard server logs. These are used for technical, legal, and operational reasons, but not for commercial profiling or advertising, like e.g. Facebook does.

There is no public indication that the Internet Archive actively tracks users across sessions, nor does it display or resell IP-based data. Users who want an added layer of privacy can use VPNs or anonymous browsers to access archived content without revealing personal network details and stay safe.