Static IP: Pros, Cons, and Everything You Need to Know

static IP

An IP address is assigned to the devices connected to the network. From the configuration ways, it can be divided into static IP address and dynamic IP address.

Here we will focus on the static IP and explain what it means. We also introduce the advantages and disadvantages for better understanding. In addition, we offer a comparison between static IP and dynamic IP.

What Is Static IP Address?

An IP address is a set of numbers that help devices identify and interact with each other. Then every device connected to the network will receive an IP address, making sure the information is transmitted to the right destination.

As the name suggests, the static IP address is an address allocated to a device and stays the same. It won’t change for a long time. That’s why enterprises often use static IP addresses to secure their server.

Benefits of Static IP

Better speed performance: Static IP can make data travel faster and prevent interference with IP address changing. If you require a fast download or upload speed, static IP is a better choice. Due to its stable connection, static IP is also suitable for voice chat, conferencing, or real-time gaming. It can effectively reduce latency.

Servers hosting: If you want to host servers or websites, static IP is essential. It can easily locate the devices and connect to them faster. It is a significant advantage for some areas.

Efficient network management: Owing to the unchanging feature of static IP, it is widely used for business. The IT staff can easily change settings or fix connection problems.

Precise location tracking: Static IP can offer reliable geolocation data. If you have some requirements for positioning information, Static IP is your top pick.

Remote access: With the static IP, you can access your device no matter what your physical location is. Especially for employees, the staff can still use the specific IP address to access the company’s data or his computer remotely.

DNS support: You might know DNS translates domain names into IP addresses so devices can easily identify and communicate. Normally, static IPs won’t change over time.

Thanks to this, the translating process becomes faster and smoother for always using the same IP address. It can also reduce the possibility of disconnecting issues.

Related: What is DNS? Everything You Need to Know about DNS

Limitations of Static IP

As we talked about above, static IP can provide accurate information about your position. It is an advantage for some services like weather. However, it could also be a risk of leaking your geolocation data.

Furthermore, static IP will not change generally. Hackers might utilize this to track your online activities. If the static IP address is attacked by cybercriminals, it is hard to change. Don’t mention the other possible financial losses for businesses.

In addition, static IP requires more hosting costs and needs manual configurations.

Use LightningX VPN to Secure Your Static IP

If you want to prevent possible hacking while using a static IP address, LightningX VPN can help you. It can conceal your true IP address and change it into a virtual one. In addition, it will encrypt all your traffic and ensure the security of your data.

LightningX VPN is also a reliable VPN to unblock Instagram, Facebook, Discord, and more. It can easily bypass restrictions and assist you access banned websites. The blazing-fast speed ensures a stable experience for your gaming or streaming.

Static IP vs. Dynamic IP: Key Differences

  • Static IP always remains the same. On the contrary, dynamic IP is different whenever you connect to the network.
  • Static IP requires extra fees for maintenance.
  • Dynamic IP is harder to track by hackers because it keeps changing.
  • Static IP is more used for business, suitable for hosting websites and servers.

How to Know My IP Address Type?

On Windows

Directly search “command prompt” in the taskbar and press it. Type ipconfig /all and click the Enter key. Then scroll down to find the DHCP Enabled section. If it says no, you are currently using a static IP address.

On Mac

Navigate to the Apple icon and press “System Settings”. Press “Network” and select “Wi-Fi”. Then hit the details next to your network. Under the TCP/IP section, find Configure IPv4″. Manually means your IP address is static.

How to Set Up a Static IP?

Router: Just open your browser and enter the router’s IP address. You can find it in the router manual or itself. Then log into the router’s admin panel. Try to find “LAN” or “Network Settings” and locate “DHCP settings”.

Enter the new IP address and other required information. You should press the save button to apply the changes.

Windows 10: Navigate to Network & Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. Right-click your network and hit “Properties”. Then Press the IPv4 switch. Fill in the new static IP address and other data. Click the OK button, it should be completed.

Windows 11: Go to Network & Internet > Press Wi-Fi or Ethernet > Hardware properties > IP assignment. Click the “Edit” button and select “Manual”. Toggle on the “IPv4” and then enter the required information. Don’t forget to save the changes.

Mac: Follow the above guide to find your IP address type. After selecting manually, enter your static IP address and DNS server addresses. You can tap OK to save it.

FAQs About Static IP

Q: Is static IP good or bad?

In short, there is no good or wrong about a static IP address. It is just a type of IP address. Depending on your specific needs, you can choose from it and the dynamic IP address.

Q: Is a static IP better for gaming?

Yes, it can constantly offer a stable connection. You don’t need to worry about IP banns.

Bottom Line

In this article, we have introduced the essentials you might be curious about static IP. After reading it, we hope you already have acknowledged some basic knowledge about it. To protect it, you can use LightningX VPN to change your IP address and secure your cyber security.

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