What is a static IP address?
Computers that connect to the Internet are assigned a unique numerical address known as an Internet Protocol (IP) address. This unique address identifies each computer on the Internet so that computers can communicate with each other by sending and receiving information using this addressing scheme. A static IP address is simply a “permanent” address that remains associated with a single computer over an extended period of time. This differs from a dynamic IP address, which is assigned ad hoc at the start of each session, normally changing from one session to the next. IP address assignment is handled by a person’s Internet Service Provider (ISP). Every ISP is designated a large block of IP addresses that fall within a specific numerical range. The ISP server automatically delegates available IP addresses within that range as needed, to clients logging on to the Internet. When a person disables his or her Internet connection, the temporarily assigned dynamic IP address goes back into t
A static IP address is, as you may have guessed, an IP address that remains static–i.e. it doesn’t change. Why would I need a static IP address? You might need a static IP address if you operate a computer that others on the Internet need to access. For example, if you have large files on your office computer you want to share with the public or with a group of colleagues, you might want a static IP so that they can always find your computer. Computers connected to a cable or xDSL connection have dynamic IP address–meaning they change from time to time. As a result, users may not know where to find the computer where you store files for them. However, new technology–DDNS–has made the need for static IP’s almost obsolete. Despite the fact your computer may be assigned a dynamic IP address, people will always be able to access your computer if you use DDNS. Does a static IP address ever change? Contrary to what you might think, yes. For example, although you may pay for a static IP a
The static IP addresses can be configured directly on the device or as part of a central DHCP configuration which associates the device’s MAC address with a static address. A static IP address is a number that is assigned to a computer by an Internet service provider (ISP) to be its permanent address on the Internet. It would be simple if every computer that connects to the Internet could have its own static IP number, but when the Internet was first conceived, the architects didn’t foresee the need for an unlimited number of IP addresses. Consequently, there are not enough IP numbers to go around. A Static IP address is where a computer uses the same address every time a user logs on to a network, such as the Internet. With a static IP address, a computer’s identity can be easily identified by others, and users can easily connect with it. That way, for example, a website, email server, or other type of server connection can be hosted. Many people want to have a static IP address.
