What is a static IP address, and does your business need one?

A dynamic public IP can change when the provider renews the connection or network lease. A static public IP is assigned so that the public address normally remains consistent. Devices inside the premises still use private local addresses supplied by the router; the public address is what internet services see.

Typical uses include allowing access only from an approved office address, connecting certain site-to-site VPNs, reaching an on-premises service, managing specialist equipment or meeting a supplier's network rule. Modern cloud services often avoid this requirement through identity-based access, managed gateways or outbound connections.

A fixed address is not encryption, a firewall, antivirus or authentication. Because it is predictable, poorly secured services exposed on it can be easier to revisit. Any internet-facing service should be deliberately configured, patched, monitored and protected with strong authentication.

Ask which exact application needs the address, whether IPv4 or IPv6 is required, whether one address or a routed block is needed, what ports must be exposed, who will maintain the firewall and whether a safer managed or cloud-based design is available.

Confirm whether a static IP is available on the selected product, whether it is included or chargeable, when it becomes active, whether it changes after a move or product migration and what support information will be supplied. Availability should be confirmed before relying on it in a technical design.

Do not add a static IP without a defined requirement. Start with secure cloud applications, multi-factor authentication and a properly configured router. Add a static address only where the business case and security ownership are clear.