With over 2 billion people buying goods and services online in 2021, it’s reasonable many businesses are going 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’re located. It’s unchanging 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’s an IP Address?
Like how customers use your office address to reach you, IP addresses are for virtual communication. It’s a string of characters assigned to every device connected to a network, like computers, routers, smartphones, and so on.
Your IP address exchanges data with every website you visit to load the content on that site’s page. It’s fundamental to internet usage. In fact, what your IP address reveals about you is less information than most people anticipate.
Your IP address is a simple tool websites use to identify your activities on the web. By itself, it’s usually not a core threat to personal privacy. Moreover, websites must follow internet privacy laws and are held responsible for protecting personal information online.
Dynamic vs. Static
Most devices have dynamic IP addresses, which means they change in the long run. Internet Service Provider’s (ISP’s) server or a network’s router gives these dynamic IP addresses whenever a device connects.
On the other hand, static IP addresses are fixed. Once a static IP address is assigned to a device, it remains its internet identifier until it’s decommissioned. Most business servers and other necessary equipment carry static IP addresses, making communicating with and finding easier.
Benefits of a Static IP Address to Businesses
A dynamic IP address usually serves its purpose for casual internet users. Most everyday internet users aren’t even aware if they’re using a dynamic or static IP address. But if you’re running a business, having a static IP address can provide plenty of benefits, including:
- Accessibility – It makes it easy for computers to reach your company server from anywhere, and customers can access your website faster.
- Easy Set-Up – A static IP address is easy to administer and manage. It simplifies the process of connecting devices such as webcams or network printers.
- Enhanced Geolocation Services – When services like the weather forecast or mapping applications can easily determine your IP address, they provide more accurate data. It’s because they can deliver information tailored precisely to the exact location rather than a nearby area.
- Remote Access – 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 doesn’t change, it ensures stable network applications and reliable connections. Communications are reliable, and it’s easier to use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).
Are you ready to reap the benefits mentioned above for your business? All major ISPs provide static IP addresses. All you need to do is contact a sales representative, and they’ll handle the rest for you.
As your company grows, you will get a clearer picture of your dynamic and static IP needs. Talk to your IT team before getting one to determine whether it’s the right decision now.