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What is a Static IP Address?

A static IP address is a fixed IP address that stays the same every time you connect to a network. Unlike a dynamic IP address, which is automatically assigned by a DHCP server and can change each time a device connects or reboots, a static IP address is manually configured and doesn’t change unless someone deliberately changes it.

Think of it like having a permanent home address versus staying in a different hotel room every night. With a static IP, anyone who needs to reach your device always knows exactly where to find it. That predictability is what makes static IPs useful for things like hosting a website, running a server, or setting up remote access to a network. In those situations, a consistent, known address matters.

For most home users, a dynamic IP is the default because it’s easier to manage at scale. Getting a static IP typically requires requesting one from your internet service provider (ISP), which may come with an added cost.