Difference between Static and Dynamic IP address - GeeksforGeeks (2024)

As you discuss connectivity of devices to the internet, or communication within a network, an IP address is taken as a basic understanding. There are two main types of IP addresses: Static and Dynamic. The purpose of this article is to describe what IP addresses are and the difference between static and dynamic IPs.

What is IP Address?

IP stands for Internet Protocol. An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to every device on a network. The difference between a Static and Dynamic IP address lies in how long the assigned address remains the same. A Static IP address is a fixed address that is manually assigned to a device for a long period of time, where as a Dynamic IP address changes frequently, usually each time the device is restarted, and is automatically assigned.

What is Static IP Address?

A Static IP address is an IP address that does not changed frequently or constantly it is reserved for a specific computer or device. This type of IP address does not dynamically change with time, but will only change through an action done by the user or the network administrator. Assigning Static IP address is common in servers, network devices or any device that has to have a fixed address that can be accessed from a distance.

How to Get a Static IP Address?

In order to obtain a Static IP address there is a possibility of applying for it from the Internet Service Provider (ISP). This may be accompanied with the extra expense of getting the ISPs to provide static IP addresses since these often come with an added cost. For those who have their own physical infrastructure of the network, static IP addresses can be assigned in the settings through the device.

When Static IPs are Needed?

Static IP addresses are especially important in cases where a device has to be quickly found over the internet on a permanent basis.

• Web Servers: A website must have one or more static IP addresses to be assigned to the domain always point to the correct server.
• Remote Access: Some of the devices that require a remote connection like the CCTV cameras or a VPN are preferable to be as static as possible.
• Hosting Servers: Game or email servers that are in constant use also need a static IP so that the services running in the background remain undisturbed.
• Secure Communications: Some devices that participate in secure communications might require static IPs to make the link stable and reliable.

What is Dynamic IP Address?

A Dynamic IP address is an IP address which is changed from time to time. In contrast to the static IP, an IPv6 address is obtained by DHCP server – (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically. In the DHCP, a host receives an available IP address from the DHCP server for some period of time referred to as the lease time and the IP address given to the host may change. Dynamic IPs are more common for home and commercial appliances and other electronic devices for which it is not necessary to have a constantly changing IP address.

How to Get a Dynamic IP Address?

Dynamic IP addresses are those that are assigned to you by the ISP on a random and on a connecting basis. Dynamic IPs can be obtained without any specific request or change as most of the ISP’s offer them by default. Whenever one launches a connection to some web, automatically the DHCP server doles out an IP address from a series of IP addresses.

Difference between Static and Dynamic IP Address

Conclusion

It is crucial to clearly distinguish between the static and the dynamic IP addresses so that a relevant network configuration can be adopted. Static IPs give stability and consistency to a network and allow the host communication over the internet to be reliable while dynamic IPs are much easier to manage and are more flexible. All in all, the decision of which to use, depends on the requirement of your network or internet connection.

Frequently Asked Questions on Static and Dynamic IP Address – FAQ’s

Is it possible to transform from dynamic IP address to the static one?

Yes, you are able to do a conversion from a dynamic IP to a static IP through contacting your ISP or through your network settings provided that you have authority over the network.

Can multiple devices share the same static IP address?

No, it is impossible for two devices in a network to share the same IP address because it will cause conflict. However, you are able to assign a single device on a network a Static IP address while other devices could be assigned dynamic IP addresses.

Why do ISPs charge extra for static IP addresses?

ISPs may add extra cost; static IP addresses are scarce and demand extraneous management as compared to dynamic ones. Static IP addresses give a standard and steady connection, and this is why it is regarded as a premium service.

Can I use a dynamic IP address for my business?

Yes, a dynamic IP address can be used for business needs but if the business does not involve much of the remote connectivity or hosting services then it can be used easily. If you are using servers or require the consistency of call connection then a static IP address may be required.