A static IP address is a somewhat permanent IP address assigned to a computer or device connected to the internet. Typically provided upon request by an Internet Service Provider (ISP), they are useful for businesses that want to maintain their servers and websites. Static IP addresses can be shared or dedicated. Shared static IP addresses are those IPs that a service provider assigns to multiple users simultaneously. Dedicated IP addresses, on the other hand, are assigned to one user exclusively.
Sometimes, business owners have to determine whether to use a static or a dynamic IP address for their servers. Compared to dynamic IPs, static IPs usually come at an extra cost, but one can justify the additional expenditure in several ways. In this article, we’ll discuss why getting a static IP address can be a smart move for your business.
Why Your Business Needs a Static IP Address
A static IP address is ideal for your business for the following reasons:
Improved remote access
If you need to give access to your network to authorized users who are not physically present in the same location, a static IP is a solution for you. Static IPs work better for remote-access solutions like a Virtual Private Network (VPN). If your business is morphing into hybrid workplaces, as it should, a static IP address helps you build a private network that your staff and other authorized users can access, irrespective of their locations. You can buy a dedicated IP to manage this network.
Reliable and affordable internet-enabled communication
A static IP address is better suited to your needs if your business relies on IP telephony and teleconferencing. IP telephone is voice communication over the internet, which has become more popular in the last few years. It is a cheaper means of communication when compared to traditional telephony as it doesn’t require additional payments other than those you’ve made for internet access.
Quick and easy file transfer
A static IP address can offer you improved data transfer speed. Because the server will handle only requests within your network, it concentrates all its resources on processing the few available requests, resulting in accelerated results. Businesses that require split-second access to their databases, like banks and flight management services, are better off with static IP addresses.
Easier resource sharing
If you want to share resources like printers and other peripherals among your employees, you need a static IP address for the devices you want to share. Devices with static IP addresses are easier to locate on the network. This easy location makes the sharing process seamless and effective. Since the IP address is constant, devices can stay connected even after multiple restarts.
Improved DNS support
Domain Name System (DNS) is central to the workings of the internet, allowing users to share their domains or parts of it with others over a network. A business can easily set up and manage its DNS servers with a static IP address. This easy process often results in the quicker and easier location of its customers’ business websites and servers.
Server Hosting
If your business operates web servers, email servers, or any other internet server, a static IP address will work better for you. A dynamic IP will require frequent reconfigurations as often as the IP changes. But with a static IP, the configuration is done only once. It also makes it easier for users to remember the IP as they don’t have to memorize a new one every time they restart the system.
Enhanced geo-location services
A static IP address allows weather forecasting services and similar applications to easily determine the location of an IP address by matching the physical location to the address. This location capacity allows such services to provide more accurate and relevant data to their users.
Additional protection
Choosing a static IP address over a DHCP address is beneficial as it gives your home network an additional layer of defense against any security issues that may arise on the network.
Stable connection
Because of their permanent nature, static IPs offer more stable connectivity. Computers and devices can reconnect quickly to the network after a reboot because the IP address remains the same.
Minimizes data loss
A dynamic IP can result in data loss during changes in the IP address. Messages sent to the old IP address may stay undelivered until you update the DNS. With a static IP, the address never changes, and the possibility of losing data is greatly reduced.
How Static IP Addresses Work
Unlike dynamic IP addresses, which most internet service providers assign to users by default, static IP addresses are usually assigned upon request. When you make the request, your service will assign you a static IP. Upon assignment, you can configure their device – a router, for example – with the new IP address. The computers and other hardware connected to the router will use the same IP address.
Conclusion
Static IP addresses provide many benefits that should encourage businesses to embrace them. The remote access it enables and safeguards is an important service in today’s world of remote work. The speed, stability, and additional security it brings to internet exchanges are also vital to the success of any business with an eye on the future. The earlier you get on board, the better for you and your business.
