subject: Start-up tips: Why get a Static IP? [print this page] There are many factors to consider when choosing the right broadband for your business, among them the issue of whether to choose a static or dynamic IP address. Each has its own advantages, but a fixed IP address can be particularly beneficial for businesses looking to benefit from remote access and greater control over their site.
Your IP address is how your PC communicates with other devices and the World Wide Web, allowing websites to recognise your computer or network device. The difference between a static and dynamic IP address is relatively simple, and can be deduced by their names - a static IP address remains fixed, whereas a dynamic IP address will be assigned a different number at regular intervals.
While a dynamic IP address could be said to offer increased security, and is the option typically favoured by home broadband packages, the same can essentially be achieved with a good firewall to block intrusions. There are in fact many advantages to switching to a static IP address, especially if you're running a business network.
With a static IP included in your business broadband package, you can more easily connect to your main PC remotely, wherever you happen to be, as you will always know the address. A fixed IP address also means you can receive emails directly to your computer, provided you have the appropriate software, as the address will be a constant. This gives you greater control over all aspects of your business' communications.
Not having to wait for your IP address to refresh, as would be the case with a dynamic address, is another reason companies favour static IPs less downtime. Running your own server is another major advantage of a static IP address, and is becoming increasingly favoured even beyond businesses due to the explosive growth of online gaming, allowing users to save their preferences.
Even if you do need to change your IP address, doing so manually with a static IP address rather than waiting for a dynamic IP address to change automatically can be a greater way of exercising control over your network. ISPs can sometimes even assign addresses that are not recognised for dynamic IP users, resulting in more downtime and technical glitches, all of which can be avoided when putting your IP address in your own hands. You will need to contact your service provider if you intend on changing a static IP address.
