When it comes to IP (Internet Protocol) addresses, there’s more to them than you might think — although we wouldn’t blame you if, until now, you haven’t given them much thought at all.
However, there comes a time in almost every internet user’s life when understanding the basic differences between static IP and dynamic IP addresses can come in handy. All IP types have their place and purpose, and we wrote this article to explore these nuances and help you choose the one most in line with your needs.
Static vs. dynamic IPs: what is the difference?
A static IP address is permanently fixed to a device per network, regardless of how many times the connection is re-established. In contrast, dynamic IP addresses are periodically swapped within a pool shared by multiple users.
Table of contents
First things first: private and public IP addresses
You might come across seemingly conflicting information about static and dynamic IP addresses online. This is because both these concepts can apply to yet another set of IPs — private and public. Bear with us:
- Private IP addresses: these are used within a local network (LAN). They are assigned by your router and used by devices locally (e.g., between smart home devices). Private IPs can be static or dynamic, but they are not visible from the outside of your local network and are not used when communicating over the internet.
- Public IP addresses: assigned by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), these come into play when devices communicate over the internet. A public IP address is unique and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. Public IPs are what we have in mind when discussing static IPs in the context of internet connectivity.
What is a static IP address?
Static IP is a fixed, unchanging IP address assigned to a device or network. Unlike dynamic IP addresses, a static IP address does not get periodically reassigned by the network provider and remains constant over time.
Why use a static IP address?
The consistency of a static IP address offers several advantages that make static IP a preferred choice for certain applications and scenarios.
Here are the main reasons to use a static IP address:
Reliable remote access
To access your devices remotely, you’ll need a public static IP address. With a public static IP, you can connect to your network without having to track or update its IP address. This is especially useful if you’re a remote worker, an IT administrator, or someone who needs remote access to their desktop computer.
Smooth hosting of servers and services
If you’re hosting servers, websites, or other online services, you’ll want to use a static IP address. Static IP lets users connect to your server without having to update information, which is really important for services such as web hosting, FTP servers, or dedicated gaming servers. It ensures everything runs smoothly and that users can access and communicate without hiccups.
Improved DNS functionality
Domain Name System (DNS) services also rely on static IP addresses. When you use a static IP, you can point DNS records to a fixed address, which makes web services more reliable and faster. If you make sure that domain names always go to the right IP address, you also reduce the risk of downtime or connectivity issues.
Enhanced security
While dynamic IP addresses can be a bit safer just because they’re harder to consistently track, in controlled environments, static IPs are a better bet. With a static IP, you can set up security measures like firewalls, VPNs, and access control lists to let or block specific traffic. This lets you prevent unauthorized access and make sure only trusted devices can communicate with the network.
Better performance and stability
A static IP address can help you avoid the occasional hiccup caused by IP address changes, leading to a more stable and reliable experience. This is particularly important for applications that require constant, high-quality connections, such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services and online gaming.
Easier office network management
A network of devices using private static IP addresses is easier to manage, particularly for small businesses and enterprise environments. Static IP addresses make things like identifying devices, adjusting settings, and resolving connectivity issues a lot smoother. Administrators can reserve specific IP addresses for essential devices, which makes network management much more predictable and organized.
Consistent operation of IoT devices
You might not know this, but the connections between our appliances, like smart lightbulbs or voice assistants, are called the Internet of Things (IoT). Private static IP addresses make their operation more reliable, ensuring they can continuously communicate and operate.
What is a dynamic IP address?
Dynamic IP is an IP address that changes periodically (usually whenever a connection is established) and isn’t permanently assigned to any device or network. Dynamic IP addresses are issued from the ISP’s pool and can be reassigned to different devices over time.
Why use a dynamic IP address
Dynamic IP addresses offer several advantages that make them suitable for everyday applications and scenarios, whether at home or in a small business environment.
Here are the main reasons to use a dynamic IP address:
Harder to track
Since dynamic IP addresses change regularly, it’s harder for others to track your activity across multiple sessions. This gives you an extra layer of privacy.
Cost-effective
Most ISPs include dynamic IP addresses in their standard packages, so you won’t have to pay extra for using one. This makes dynamic IP a budget-friendly option for both home and business users.
Easy to set up and use
Dynamic IP addresses require minimal configuration. Your ISP is typically the one handling their assignment — which is convenient, especially for less tech-savvy users.
Automatically resolve IP conflicts
Local networks can experience IP address conflicts, especially if new devices are introduced. With dynamic IPs, they usually get resolved automatically, saving time and reducing the need for troubleshooting.
Static IP vs. dynamic IP
So, what is the difference between static and dynamic IP? A static IP address is fixed to a device and doesn’t change over time, making it ideal for hosting servers and websites. A dynamic IP address changes periodically, which is suitable for general internet use, more cost-effective, and offers security through obscurity.
How to get a static IP address
Whenever you need a stable and consistent IP address for your online activities, learning how to use a static IP address is the way to go. This section will guide you through the process of obtaining a static IP address, whether you need a public or a private one.
Getting a private static IP address
A private static IP address is used within your local network and is not accessible from the internet. It’s useful for devices that need a consistent IP address within your home or office network, such as printers or file servers. Here’s how you can set one up:
- Access your router’s admin interface: log into your router’s admin interface. This is usually done by typing the router’s IP address into a web browser. The IP address and login credentials are often found on the router itself or inside the user manual.
- Find the DHCP settings: within the admin interface, navigate to the DHCP settings. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is what your router uses to assign IP addresses to devices on your network automatically.
- Reserve an IP address: look for a section that allows you to reserve or assign a static IP address. You will need the MAC address of the device you want to assign the static IP to. The MAC address is a unique identifier for each network device and can usually be found in the device’s network settings.
- Assign the IP Address: enter the MAC address and the desired IP address into the reservation list. Make sure the IP address you choose is outside the range of addresses your DHCP server assigns automatically to avoid conflicts.
- Save and restart: save your settings and restart your router. This ensures that the new settings take effect. Once your router restarts, the device with the reserved IP address should automatically receive the static IP you assigned.
- Verify: check the network settings on the device to ensure it has received the correct static IP address. You can also use network tools or commands such as ping to test connectivity within your network.
Getting a public static IP address
When it comes to your public IP address, nowadays, most ISPs assign one dynamically each time you connect to the internet. Changing your public IP to static usually costs extra. Here’s how to go about it:
- Contact your ISP: the first step is to reach out to your ISP. Not all ISPs offer static IP addresses, so ask about the availability, cost, and any requirements they might have.
- Select a plan: if your ISP provides static IP addresses, you might need to select a specific plan that includes this feature. Some ISPs offer static IPs only as part of their business plans.
- Configure: once you’ve arranged for a static IP with your ISP, they will provide you with the specific address and other necessary details, such as the subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers. You will need to configure your router or device with these settings. Typically, this can be done through the router’s admin interface.
- Verify: after configuring your device, it’s important to verify that the static IP is working correctly. You can do this by visiting our What is my IP? website and making sure your public IP address matches the one assigned by your ISP.
Surfshark’s Dedicated IP feature
An alternative to obtaining a static IP directly from your ISP is to use Surfshark’s Dedicated IP feature:
- What it is: Dedicated IP gives you VPN protection and a static IP address that’s exclusively yours.
- Benefits of Dedicated IP: with Surfshark’s Dedicated IP, you get the benefits of a static IP without having to change your internet service plan or tinker with your router settings. At the same time, you get the privacy and security features that come with VPNs, like encrypted connections and hiding your IP address.
- How to get Surfshark’s Dedicated IP: to get started, subscribe to Surfshark and opt for the Dedicated IP feature. Once activated, you can select it on the Surfshark app. And if you need extra help at any step, check out our support page.
But wait — how do I check whether my IP is static or dynamic?
Knowing whether you have a static or a dynamic IP address can be important for troubleshooting network issues or setting up specific services. The exact steps depend on the operating system you’re using:
How to check your IP type on Windows
- Click on the taskbar search and type command prompt.
- Hit Command Prompt.
- Type ipconfig /all and press Enter.
- Find the DHCP Enabled line. Yes means your IP address is dynamic, and No means your IP is static.
Finding your IP type on macOS
- Click on the Apple icon and hit System Settings.
- Choose Network and click Wi-Fi.
- Then click Details next to your network.
- Click on TCP/IP.
- Find Configure IPv4. Manually means your IP address is static, and Using DHCP means you have a dynamic IP address.
How to find your IP type on Android
- Head to Settings.
- Tap Connections and then hit Wi-Fi.
- Tap the gear icon next to your active network.
- Hit View more and look for IP settings.
Checking IP type on iOS
- Open Settings.
- Tap on Wi-Fi. Choose your currently active network.
- Find Configure IP. Manual means your IP address is static, and Automatic means your IP is dynamic.
In conclusion: which IP type is better for me?
Ultimately, choosing between static and dynamic IP comes down to your specific needs.
Either way, protecting it from websites and servers is important to keep your online identity safe. After all, your IP address can tell more about you than you might think. It can be used to target you with ads, launch DDoS attacks, or even discover your location information.
To hide your IP, consider using a VPN. It will let you use the address of a VPN server by routing all data you send and receive. A VPN will make your online activity significantly more private, to the point where even your ISP won’t be able to monitor your browsing habits.
You can go even further and opt for our Surfshark One subscription. Along with the VPN, you’ll get Surfshark Antivirus, a robust but lightweight feature that mitigates the risks of falling victim to spyware and malware, Search, which lets you search the web privately without ads or trackers, and Alert — a smart tool that will alert you to any leaks of personal information.
FAQ
Is it hard to change IP from static to dynamic?
For regular consumer devices, switching IP from static to dynamic is pretty straightforward. In fact, it’s more difficult — and potentially expensive — to change it the other way around.
Is static IP faster than a dynamic one?
No, a static IP address isn’t faster than a dynamic one. However, it provides a more stable connection for VoIP purposes.
Is static IP better for the home network?
Static IP might be preferred for the home network if you want to access your home devices remotely.
Can a VPN help me change the type of IP?
Yes, a VPN can help you get a different type of IP, as some VPN providers offer dedicated static IPs. Surfshark’s Dedicated IP will assign you a static IP address you won’t be sharing with any other users.
Is static or dynamic IP better for gaming?
Static IP can be better for gaming If you’re hosting game servers or participating in competitive gaming where every millisecond counts.
