IP Address Types

Dynamic IP vs. Static IP: What's the Difference?

Published on July 26, 2025

Your IP Address: Is it Permanent?

Not all IP addresses are created equal. They generally fall into two categories: dynamic or static.

Dynamic IP Address

A dynamic IP address is a temporary address that is assigned to a device by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) each time it connects to the network. These IPs are drawn from a pool of available addresses. For most home users, this is the standard. It's cost-effective for ISPs and offers a small degree of privacy since your address changes periodically.

Static IP Address

A static IP address is a fixed, unchanging address. Businesses often use static IPs for hosting websites, email servers, or providing remote access to employees, as a consistent address is required. While reliable, they can be a security risk if not properly secured, as they provide a constant target for attackers.

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