What Is a Static IP Address – Here Is What You Need to Know

Surprisingly, not many people know about IP addresses, let alone the difference between a dynamic or a static IP address. If you are one of those people, there is no cause for alarm, although it would be a good idea to know what is static IP, and how it differs from a dynamic IP address. To learn everything there is to know about what is a static IP address, and much more, read on.

What is a Static IP Address?

So, what is a static IP address? It is an IP address that was manually configured for your device, rather than a DHCP server assigning one for it automatically. The reason why it is referred to as a static IP address is that it never changes. For this reason, static IP addresses are also known as fixed IP addresses.

Whether it is a laptop, desktop, tablet, phone, router, or any other device that connects to the internet, they can all have a static IP. This can be made possible by configuring the device giving out IP addresses to your devices, in most cases, a router.

Why use a Static IP Address?

Another way to think of a static IP address is to think of it as being no different from your permanent home address. Your address will not change unless you move to a new place. The reason why you would want to stick to one place is so that you are easier to locate, and this use case applies to a static IP address as well.

If you would like to have a file server in your network, host a website, access programs remotely, and so on, then you will most definitely need a static IP address. Since a static IP address remains the same, your devices will know how to contact those devices that have a static IP address.

Failing to use a static IP address, especially if you want to host a website, will be quite the hassle. The reason why it will be problematic is due to the fact your device will get a new IP address each time, and each time you will have to configure your router to forward requests to your new IP address. Failing to do so will mean users will not be able to get to your website, as your router will not identify the device in your network that is hosting your website.

Difference between Dynamic and Static IP Address

Dynamic IP addresses are the complete opposite of static IP addresses. A dynamic IP address is a regular IP address, the same as a static IP address, but it is not permanent. Dynamic IP addresses are used for a specific amount of time, after which they are returned to an address pool for other devices to take advantage of them.

Now that you have a better understanding of what is a static IP address, and how it differs from a dynamic IP address, let’s take a look as to when each type of IP address comes in particularly handy:

• Dynamic IP addresses are used by ISPs to make the most of their limited supply of IP addresses.
• Static IP addresses have little to no downtime, unlike dynamic IP addresses where existing users with a dynamic IP could be removed from a connection if a request is made by another user.
• Local networks, like those found in businesses and homes, use private IP addresses, which means most devices are dispatched dynamic IP addresses by a DHCP server.
• Larger companies and organizations do not use dynamic IP addresses; they use static IP addresses instead.

Limitation of using a Static IP Address

The biggest drawback of using static IP addresses is that your devices will need to be configured manually. This is a lot of work when compared to setting up a router and allowing it to give out dynamic IP addresses to your devices.

If a device has a specific IP address, like 192.168.1.2, and you join a different network that gives out 192.256.X.X as addresses, then you will not be able to connect with your static IP address. To fix this problem, you will need to reconfigure your device using DHCP.

Another massive problem that arises from using static IP addresses is that it becomes easier for hackers and cybercriminals to compromise your network. When your IP addresses are static, it gives hackers and cyber criminals all the time they need to find vulnerabilities to gain access to your network.

How to get a Static IP Address?

You may know what is a static IP address, but how do you get one? Of course, you do have the option to set it up manually by following these instructions. If you want to take the easier route, you can instead get a dedicated IP for yourself. Do keep in mind though, simply getting a dedicated IP address will not cut it, you will need to get it by downloading a reliable VPN provider, like Ivacy VPN.

By getting a dedicated IP from a VPN like Ivacy VPN, you will be able to set up your devices quickly. Most importantly, you will not have to worry about hacking, and cyber threats of any kind, because VPNs come with advanced security features that ensure you are safe and secure online at all times.

All in all, you have everything you need to know about what is a static IP address. To find out what is my static IP address, click here. As for using a VPN to get a static IP, make sure you always stick to a reliable one, like Ivacy VPN.

When it comes to Ivacy VPN, you will get access to any and all content online, that too with impenetrable security. Whether you use a static or dynamic IP address, Ivacy VPN will meet and exceed your expectations at every turn!