One of the great things about tech is that the people in it tend to be very literal (and not particularly imaginative) with how they name things. A static IP address is literally exactly what you would think – it's an internet address that doesn't change. Unfortunately, that's where the easy part ends.
Most people aren't aware that addresses can change, so the idea of IP addresses being static seems like it should be the norm. They should be a street address, right?
The benefits of a static IP address are like the benefits of a street address because people will know exactly where to go to read about your business. However, there is more you need to know to understand how they work and how you benefit from having one for your business.
What is a Static IP, and How Does It Differ from a Dynamic IP Address?
Despite what most people think, the majority of IP addresses are dynamic. In other words, they change. When an Internet service provider assigns an address, it is usually a dynamic address, so it can change with very little notice.
If you have a static IP address, it will not change. Unsurprisingly, they are also called dedicated or fixed, which makes it clear that they are not going to change.
While you may be aware of the letters associated with your website, the IP address is a series of numbers. That is what changes in a dynamic address and what remains the same in a static address.
That is why you can enter the same letters and always get the correct website, even if the IP address changes.
Typically, static IP addresses are assigned to devices and equipment, such as servers and tools that are used by other machines for reference. This allows for quick access to them when needed.
The reason that most addresses are dynamic is that they receive a new IP address every time they connect. They tend to have day-to-day settings, but there could be maintenance or other events that mean that the IP address numbers change.
Benefits of a Static IP Address
While a dynamic address is just fine for the casual user, having a static IP address is better for most businesses. With more people working and connecting remotely, having a reliable, known address can ensure a faster, more reliable network.
Having a static IP address means that you will be able to host your servers, something that is preferred in several highly regulated industries.
The following are the primary benefits of having a fixed IP address:
- Improved connection
- Easier remote access
- Reliable VoIP Communications
- Ability to host your own servers
- Support for upgrading the DNS
- Simplified geolocation
Improved Connection
When your IP address doesn't change, there is a lower risk of downtime. With people having little patience for websites taking time to load, they are not likely to stick around if a site crashes because of an issue.
Most people expect a stable network connection when they are online. This is much easier when the server identification is constant.
Easier Remote Access
When you allow workers to work from anywhere, you can ensure a more consistent and productive workday. If you have a high percentage of staff who work remotely, a dynamic IP address can reduce productivity.
Without a static IP address, workers may need a new address every time they log in to the network, which will slow down the process of them doing anything, even something as simple as checking email.
Having a static IP address means that they will be able to log in quickly and get right to work. This allows employees to connect quickly with their teams.
Reliable VoIP Communications
If ensuring reliable VoIP communications is essential for your business, it is definitely better to have a static IP address. This ensures stable device connectivity, no matter how many devices you connect.
Ability to Host Your Own Servers
While not something that every business needs, if your business hosts servers, you will greatly benefit from a static IP address. This is one of the primary reasons for having this kind of address.
Support for Upgrading the DNS
Similar to having a reliable way to connect, the static IP address makes it easier to establish and manage DNS servers.
Simplified Geolocation
Some businesses rely on having a physical location, so they need a reliable connection for their customers who can connect from anywhere.
One of the most extreme examples of this is maritime telemetry. They are able to use the static IP address to access and track the systems on vessels.
Why a Static IP Address May Not Work for Your Business
Not all businesses will benefit from this kind of address. Picking the right business internet is important from the beginning, so you should understand when the solution is more of a drawback than a benefit.
Most people will cite the cost as the biggest drawback. A static IP address does cost more, although it is a cost you pay upfront. You will not need to pay for it, like a subscription.
It can certainly be easier to secure a fixed IP address, but you also need to make sure that you have a robust security system in place. Since your address does not change, it is much easier to locate, meaning that once a hacker knows your address, they can attack repeatedly.
This also means that you need to always ensure that your security is current. If an attack doesn't work this year, a malicious hacker may try a new type of attack next year and find success. As a result, security costs may be higher so that your system is not vulnerable to newer hacking methods.
Uses of Static IP Addresses for Modern Businesses
Globalisation has made it important for many industries to be accessible from anywhere. This is not true of every business, but when a company relies on remote workers or customers, having an unchanging address can ensure a good experience.
With the increase in malicious hackers and new types of attacks, a fixed address provides more secure connections. The more common and reliable protection tools, such as virtual private networks (VPNs) and firewalls, are better able to protect the known address.
When the address can change, security measures may not be as reliable, as there could be gaps in the security if the address regularly changes. It is easier to establish a more secure connection when all of the connection points are known.
Considering how much business and work is done over devices today, ensuring a regular, reliable connection is better for business. Following the pandemic, video conferencing has become vital to doing business.
Teams and partners need to know that they will have a seamless conferencing solution. Whether you use VoIP, Zoom, Skype, Google, or some other conferencing platform, knowing that everyone will be able to easily connect ensures a more productive environment.
In the event that your address is successfully hacked, it will be much harder and more costly to get a new static IP address. That means going through all of the same tasks to ensure that it is properly set up and all devices are compatible with it.
Setting Up Your Business Static IP Address
Providing your customers, partners, and staff a better experience is actually fairly simple.
- Find a reliable internet service provider. If you already have a provider, contact them about your current address type.
- Discuss your options about the different types of IP addresses and whether you need business wireless broadband.
- Ask about your current internet speed requirements and see if that will need to change as a result of making a change if you have an existing account.
Take the time to ask questions and learn about your options. Depending on your options and the provider, you may have different requirements.
Considering that changing to a static IP address will be more difficult once you commit, you want to make sure it is the right solution first.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a business internet service provider, the type of IP address you need is a critical consideration. Just because a static IP address is the better solution for many businesses, it isn't necessarily the right solution for you.
If you have questions or would like to explore your options further, contact us. We will help you determine the right solution for your business.
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