With over 2 billion people buying goods and services online in 2021, it’s reasonable for many businesses to go digital. If you’re one of those running an online business, you need a static Internet Protocol (IP).
Like a physical address, a static IP address is your street address that tells other computers where you are. It’s immutable and valuable for small businesses with internet-related needs like email, web hosting, video conferencing apps, and more.
But first, let’s understand what an IP address is.
What is an IP address?
Just as customers use your office address to reach you, IP addresses are used for virtual communication. It is a string of characters assigned to every device connected to a network, such as computers, routers, smartphones, etc.
Your IP address exchanges data with each website you visit in order to load content on that website’s page. It is fundamental for using the internet. In fact, what your IP address reveals about you is less information than most people expect.
Your IP address is a simple tool that websites use to identify your activity on the Internet. By itself, it is usually not a core privacy threat. In addition, websites must comply with Internet privacy laws and are responsible for protecting personal information online.
Dynamic vs. static
Most devices have dynamic IP addresses, which means they change over time. A network’s Internet Service Provider (ISP) server or router gives these dynamic IP addresses whenever a device connects.
On the other hand, static IP addresses are fixed. Once a device is assigned a static IP address, it remains its Internet identifier until it is decommissioned. Most business servers and other necessary devices carry static IP addresses, making them easier to communicate with and find.
Benefits of a Static IP Address for Businesses
A dynamic IP address usually does the trick for casual internet users. Most everyday internet users don’t even know if they are using a dynamic or static IP address. But if you’re running a business, a static IP address can offer many benefits, including:
- Accessibility – It makes it easy for computers to reach your company server from anywhere and customers can access your website faster.
- Easy setting – A static IP address is easy to administer and manage. It simplifies the connection of devices such as webcams or network printers.
- Improved geolocation services – If services such as weather forecast or mapping applications can easily determine your IP address, they will provide more accurate data. This is because they can provide information that is precisely tailored to the exact location rather than a nearby area.
- remote access – By using a virtual private network (VPN) or other remote access solution, a static IP address makes it easier for employees to work remotely.
- stability – Since it does not change, it ensures stable network applications and reliable connections. Communication is reliable and it is easier to use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Are you ready to use the above benefits for your business? All major ISPs provide static IP addresses. All you have to do is contact a sales representative who will do the rest for you.
As your business grows, you’ll get a clearer picture of your dynamic and static IP needs. Talk to your IT team before hiring one to determine if it’s the right decision now.
