As the name suggests, a static IP address is an IP that stays the same. You can get a static IP address from your Internet provider, but you usually have to request one.
In contrast, dynamic IP changes. A dynamic IP could mean that the address changes periodically, maybe once or twice a month. And this describes most IP addresses provided by Internet Providers. It can also involve you use a new IP address every time you connect to Wi-Fi.
Average users might not need a Static IP address for their home, but many businesses benefit from a static IP. Static IPs are useful for mail services, web servers, and file transfer protocol. If you want to host computer servers, it is easier to have a static address. Static IPs are also preferable if you use a lot of geolocation services, as it increases precision.
Most providers charge more for a static IP than a dynamic IP. Another option you have to use a VPN service to get a static IP.
What’s the Difference?
Most IPs are dynamic. Dynamic IPs are more accessible and more cost-efficient. For some, your IP address can change without you ever even noticing. One reason is that even a dynamic IP does not necessarily change often. You could have the same IP for months. Usually, it does not affect your Internet experience. Unless you check your IP address regularly, there’s a good chance the change will go unnoticed.
Dynamic IPs are easy and typically dependable. They also lead to less accurate geolocation, which could be a benefit to you. Static IPs have some advantages, too. They tend to give you faster download speeds. They are also necessary to set up a proper server or to host websites. Essentially, a static IP gives you more control.
Using a VPN
But how does a VPN work? VPN software masks your IP address and encrypts your Internet activity. Typically, data is routed by an Internet service provider. VPN software takes the data and routes through a network of servers, so the data never goes through the Internet provider, and it has many different uses.
You can use a VPN to make your online activity more private. You can use it to keep people and organizations from spying on you. You can use it to make yourself appear to be in a different country.
Most VPN services do not provide you with a static IP address. Some do, but they tend to cost more than rival VPN servers. However, this is still a cheaper way to get a static IP than going through an Internet provider, who tend to charge an arm and a leg.
We have researched a bunch of different VPN services and found some that offer static IP addresses. Of the ones we saw, these were the ones we liked the best.
1 CyberGhost
CyberGhost was one of our favorites. You can get a static IP at a reasonable price. CyberGhost has a lot going for it. They do not have any bandwidth caps, they use over 800 different servers, and the encryption is strong, They also do not log your online activity, so you have more privacy than some other VPNs.
Check out high rated CyberGhost’s review to find out how good it is.
NordVPN is an excellent VPN service. One problem to keep in mind is that NordVPN can be used in countries all over the world, but they only offer static IPs in some of those locations. Depending on where you live, this might not be an option for you. If you are lucky enough to live in the right jurisdiction, you will have access to extreme privacy and the ability to connect six devices at once.
VPNArea is another provider that only offers static IPs in some locations, but their location options are higher than with NordVPN. Residents of the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, and Romania will have access to static IPs. VPNArea as several excellent security features, such a kill switch. The provider also has strong customer support, which makes it ideal for beginners. One downside is that if you are in the United States, download speeds can be on the slow side.