When you signed up for internet service from your local Internet Service Provider (ISP), you were assigned an IP address. Like your home address, this allows your device to navigate the Internet and helps identify a specific device on your network.
Usually, your ISP provides a dynamic IP address for your connection. However, sometimes a static IP address works better than a regular dynamic IP address.
How do you determine which IP address to use and what makes an IP address better than another? Let’s take a closer look at the differences between static IP and dynamic IP, as well as the strengths of each.
Table of Contents
first. Static IP is permanent. Dynamic IP changes over time
First, we need to define the function of each IP type to better understand its function. Dynamic IP addresses are the more common of these two, as ISPs provide this type of IP by default to their customers.
Provided automatically by Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Dynamic IP is not permanent and change periodically without affecting your internet connection.
In contrast to the dynamic counterpart, the static IP address remains the same and does not change even when the device is not actively connected to the network or turned off. Your ISP assigns this IP address directly to the device based on availability in your area.
Unless the IP address reservation is canceled or the device is permanently removed from the network, the device’s IP address will remain.
2. Dynamic IP is automatically provisioned
Each device that connects to the network, whether it’s a home or online network, is immediately assigned a dynamic IP address by a DHCP server and identifies the specific device in its network.
Automatic setup makes connecting to the Internet more accessible and stress-free, as it saves the hassle of manually setting up devices on the server. With static IP, each IP address is manually configured and cannot be reused on other devices.
3. Static IP Makes remote connection easier
Another advantage that static IP has over dynamic IP is the stability and reliability of the internet connection. Static IP is a fixed IP address, making it easier to locate your connection through Doman Name System (DNS). This makes static IP ideal for businesses, web hosting and maintaining games or web servers.
Make calls over Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN), and manage remote desktop tasks more manageable when using static IP. Faster file transfers between peer servers over static IP.
4. Dynamic IPs are less likely to be hacked
In this day and age, where almost everyone is online in one form or another, the risk of your device being hacked is more real than ever. A common method for hackers to get into one’s device is through its IP address, and this is where having a static IP address versus a DHCP IP address can be a danger.
Since static IPs do not change unless intentionally deleted, once a hacker finds out the server information, it will be impossible to prevent them from attacking that connection. This can mean potential corruption or theft of personal files and data, compromised sensitive information, and loss of funds.
While dynamic IP addresses are not a perfect solution to eliminate hacking, they provide better security than static IPs. Since it changes periodically, it’s less vulnerable to cyberattacks and harder for hackers to pinpoint your exact location.
5. Static IPs cost more
Compared to dynamic IP addresses, requesting static IPs from your ISP will usually have an additional fee on your bill. This is due to the setup, maintenance and additional work required.
Treat your IP address like your regular parking space. Dynamic IP is an empty parking spot on the parking lot, while a static IP is a reserved parking spot. There is a limited number of them as these IP addresses cannot be reused and having one will require registration.
The number of available IPs is not enough for all devices worldwide to have dedicated IP addresses. That’s why ISPs sometimes choose to recycle IP. Since they can’t reuse static IPs, they have to put a premium on the IP to get it up and running.
Note: How to check and change IP address on home network
All of these discussions about static IP and dynamic IP should spark interest in knowing your IP address and if possible changing it from dynamic to static. There are several websites online that can display your public IP address.
Some benefits of static IP for devices on your home network
For home network, you can also change the IP address in your network from dynamic IP to static IP to improve connectivity in the network. Also, if you are using a VPN, there are options in the service to check and change the IP address.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) seamlessly assigns a new IP address to any device connected to the router. But manually assigning your own static IPs to devices on your home network can also make life easier in a few ways. It’s easy to set static IPs manually for your own devices from the router.
For example, if you have set up a media server with Kodi then it is better to assign it a static IP address from the router’s interface. The unified static IP addressing scheme can also make it easier for you to find your device through command line tools or any other method of IP communication.
Choose the IP address that suits your needs
Choosing the correct type of IP address is based on how you use the internet. If you are a normal internet user who is often online to check social networks, watch videos and play some games, then dynamic IP address should work fine for you. It’s free, automatic, and gets the job done.
However, if you are a business and require a stable connection to increase productivity and maintain your website or server, then using a static IP is your best move. While it can be more expensive than a standard dynamic IP address, a dedicated IP improves connectivity and makes it easier for your server to locate for other businesses. Explore your ISP’s pricing tiers as business ISP plans often include the option to choose a static IP.
