In this article we explain the difference between a static and dynamic IP.
Static vs Dynamic IP: What is the difference?
We can say that the IP address is a unique number, a kind of identity, that shows us on the network. Basically it serves to send and receive packets on the network. It is as if it were a physical address, where we get the letters and packages. It allows identifying computers on the Internet and thus we can communicate. Now, we can come across the option of static and also dynamic IP address. Let’s see how they differ and how we can use one or the other.
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Why IP addresses are necessary?
The Internet is made up of what we know as DNS. This is the domain name system which basically does is translate the IP addresses in some way. That is, instead of having to type a long series of numbers to enter our website, we simply put a domain name in the browser and that’s it.
An IP address is therefore necessary to identify each computer on the network, each domain on the Internet and thus allow communications. This gives us clues as to why sometimes we can run into static and other dynamic directions.
Returning to the point of the importance of these addresses, it should be mentioned that they are vital to communicate devices. Connecting one computer to another requires that each computer have a different IP address. In this way the router can offer connection to all devices.
You have to differentiate between internal and external IP addresses. The first are those that allow us to identify devices facing the router. Each of the teams will have a different one so that no conflicts are generated. The second are those that identify us on the Internet, when surfing the net.
What is a Static IP address?
On the one hand we have static IP addresses. It means, as the name implies, that they are fixed, that they do not vary and we will always have the same identification number. That address can be assigned to a device and never change.
It is important that the IP is fixed when we are going to configure a server, for example. Also when setting up a website or email. We need the address to always be the same.
This is useful in the case of a website because having a fixed address we would not have problems of changes. In this way we will have stable, faster connections and avoid interruptions. Also, we will have exclusive control and no other user will use the same address.
Sometimes they are very necessary to play online in the best conditions, as well as to use VPN.
What are the disadvantages of fixed IP addresses? Without a doubt one of them is precisely that it does not change. This can leave us more exposed and have less security. They could block us from being able to access a certain online service, for example.
Another problem is that they are paid. After all, we are going to have one exclusively for us and that means that we must pay for it.
What is a Dynamic IP address?
On the other hand we have dynamic IP addresses. Basically they are the ones that change, the ones that are flexible. We can say that they are safer, since we are less exposed to possible attacks on the network. They also allow us to avoid being blocked when accessing a certain service. They improve our privacy on the Internet.
Our service provider will assign us a variable address. Keep in mind that this makes the connection less stable and we may have certain problems.
This type of address is not recommended for certain actions. As we see, it has its positive points, such as having more privacy, but also negative ones and they will not be indicated to configure servers, for example.
In short, as we see, there are differences between static and dynamic IP addresses. Each of the options can be oriented to certain services and characteristics in the network. We will have to choose according to our interests.
