A static IP address is like a permanent home address. When you get online, your device is normally assigned a unique IP address number that acts as an identifier and ties to your geographic location. A typical IP address is dynamic. A dynamic IP address changes and you get a different one regularly. This is a very efficient system that also helps keep your devices secure against hacking. However, a static IP address that does not change is needed for some applications.
Static IP Address Uses
Most people don’t need a static IP address. Their benefits mainly apply to businesses, gamers, VoIP home phone users, and techies that have servers or websites to host. Here are the main uses for a static IP:
- Gaming (Bypass ‘NAT’ restrictions, decrease latency)
- Hosting a website or email server
- Security Cameras
- Business devices like printers and routers
- Remote access to a particular computer
- Better for VoIP home phone service
- Better geo-location services
Where Do IP Addresses Come From?
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is an internet communication protocol (technical stuff) that assigns IP addresses on devices via your router. DHCP takes an IP address from a pool and gives it out when a device connects to the router. The IP address expires and is unassigned and returned to the pool if the device disconnects for a while. A static IP does not use DHCP so it stays the same. It can be applied to a particular device or to the router itself.
Static IP Addresses at Webformix
At Webformix, client connections are not provided IP addresses via DHCP. We reserve the ability and right to change standard client IP addresses at any time. Our network is built to accommodate a large number of static IP addresses. Your exterior-mounted dish equipment protects your Webformix IP address. However, the Webformix network is made up of multiple tower sites. The tower sites feed into each other to reach remote locations. This can lead to a problem called ‘Double NAT’ or ‘Strict NAT’ which is caused by having multiple specialized routers communicating with each other in a row.
When we provide a Static IP add-on service to our clients, what we’re doing is modifying our network configuration to provide a more direct path to your home connection. Some providers may refer to this as a ‘Static, Public IP Address’ to differentiate from a simpler ‘Static IP Address.’ At Webformix the result is the same, a more direct connection for your devices to be more easily access, and be accessed from, the internet.
Warnings for Static IP Users
Having a static IP does make you more vulnerable to hacking and data tracking. This means that it is very important to take measures to enhance your security. You can also use a VPN to hide the physical location tied to your static IP address. Finally, static IP addresses do typically cost extra. If you are a Webformix customer that needs a static IP, our cost is just $10 per month. All you need to do is contact us to get one set up!
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