A static IP address is an Internet Protocol (IP) address that doesn’t change. This type of IP address is very important for businesses because it allows them to have a more reliable connection to the internet and their website.
So, you must be wondering what is a static IP address right? There are many benefits to having a static IP, which we will discuss in this blog post, and further information on how to find your IP address
What is a static IP address?
Static IP Addresses (also known as fixed or dedicated IP addresses) do not change. Typically Static IP Addresses stay with the device until it is decommissioned, modified, or otherwise stops working with the network. Static IP addresses are typically for servers and specialized equipment, making them easy to find.
Why You Should Get a static IP address?
Another way to think of a static IP address is to think of how our physical addresses don’t change. It’s easy for others to find us as long as we share our static IP address.
A static IP address can be useful for all sorts of networked devices, especially if those devices are dedicated to a particular task. This is because the IP address never changes meaning that other similar machines always know how to contact it.
One advantage to having a home network with static IP addresses is that any request for information that utilizes this address can be sent directly to the corresponding computer such as FTP requests.
A static IP address (unlike a dynamic IP, which varies) is an easy way to minimize the confusion and inconvenience of having to update your router every time the computer’s IP address changes.
Neglecting to reserve a custom, static IP address would mean that nobody could get to your website – since the router has no idea which device in your network is serving your site.
Computers that connect to a file server in the workplace could be set up to always connect using the static IP instead of its hostname. Even if the DNS server stops functioning, computers can access files from a file server through its IP address.
Dynamic vs Static IP Address
There are no perfect IP address solutions. Sometimes a computer or device should use a static IP address; other times, the best solution is a dynamic one.
Deciding which type of IP addresses best suits your needs depends on the nature of the connection. A static IP address is more appropriate for a business, while a dynamic IP provides better service to homes.
Devices that often have static IPs assigned to them are servers and peripherals. If you’re an occasional user of the internet and don’t need your IP address to be static, then it won’t matter if it changes.
Static IP addresses are usually provided as perks on web hosting and email providers, but this doesn’t mean you need one for running your website.
Static IP addresses are fixed, while dynamic IP addresses change each time they are assigned. Some benefits to static IPs include a faster internet connection, easy remote access, and more!
Dynamic and static IP comparison
Static IP Address | Dynamic IP Address |
Always remains the same. | Dynamic IP addresses are subject to change. |
Commonly assigned to servers and other high-tech devices. | Dynamic IPs are assigned by DHCP servers. |
Assigned by Internet Service Providers (ISPs). | Dynamic addresses are used because IPv4 doesn’t provide enough static IP addresses. |
The static IP address could be IPV4 or IPV6. | Probably your home or office may be assigned a dynamic IP address by your ISP’s DHCP server |
Depending on the nature of your agreement your ISP may not allocate you static IP. | Dynamic IP is the standard used by and for consumer equipment. |
Pros and cons of a static IP address
- Best for Server hosting
- Gives good DNS support
- Perfect for remote access
- Reliable communication support
- Better geolocation services response.
- Vulnerable to hackers.
- Quite expensive.
- Locations can be tracked.
Frequently asked questions
What is the static IP address used for?
Is static IP address necessary?
Is a static IP safe?
Can a static IP address be hacked?
Does static IP address increase speed?
Does a static IP improve Ping?
How do I get a free static IP address?
Do I have to pay for a static IP address?
Does my router have a Static IP address?
What devices require a static IP address?
Why should I assign a static IP address?
Conclusion
Static IP addresses are typically best for businesses that host their websites and internet services. Static IPs also work well when remote workers log in to your network via a VPN. Dynamic IP addresses are more cost-effective for most consumers and pose less of a security risk.
Hopefully, after reading this blog post, you’ll know how to answer the question: what is a static IP address?