What is a Static IP Address | Definition

Static IP address or static internet protocol address is a permanent address allocated to a host or computer in the network. This is also called fixed IP.

How do static IP addresses work?

A host with fixed IP address does not change its IP address whenever it goes online. I mean even if you go online after one or two weeks or a month you will be allotted the same IP address.

How to get static IP Address?

You can get a static IP address from your internet service provider (ISP). Internet service providers usually allocate dynamic IP addresses to the computers of their subscribers. But if you want a constant IP address which should not change, ISP can provide you a permanent IP on monthly or annual payment methods.. This means you have to pay extra money for the static IP. Static IP cost varies depending upon your internet plan. You can contact your ISP to know the price.

What is a static public IP address?

A public IP address is an address which DHCP server of your ISP provides to your device. So a static public IP address is an IP which you get from your ISP.

Is static IP address free?

As I told you above you have to pay to get static IP. The reason is IPv4( IP version four) pool is almost exhausted. So companies use IP addresses dynamically to counter the traffic coming on the network. But there is much space still available in IPv6 addresses pool. Many companies provide free IPv6 addresses. So go and get one IPv6 address before this pool get exhaust too.

Are static IP addresses safe?

Static IP address is a security risk. One can easily follow your activity and get access to your sensitive information. So before using static IP you should take preventive measures to save your server from hackers.

Does static IP address increase speed?

An IP address only helps to find the location of your device in the network. Having a static IP doesn’t impact on the speed because DNS servers already work very fast to find locations of hosts.

Benefits of static IP address vs dynamic

• If you have FTP server, you need stability because many people are transferring data to your server or downloading data from your server. If IP changes during file transfer process the connection can be interrupted. Similarly your subscribers can be affected if you use dynamic IP for your FTP server.
• Similarly if you are providing web hosting services, online gaming services or voice over IP (VoIP) services, you need a static IP. A change in IP can interrupt the connections at any time.
• Static IP helps you to monitor your security cameras installed at your home or business place from some remote location. Whereas dynamic IP will put you in a difficult situation in case of any emergency because first you need to know which IP address has been allocated to the camera only after that you can receive information.
• During the process of IP changing, your server link can be down. In order to have a seamless connectivity you need static IP rather than dynamic IP.

What devices use static ip addresses?

Generally routers/servers use static IPs. Whereas client computers mostly use dynamic IPs.