An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a unique number assigned to each computer on a network. Just as a street address determines where a letter should be delivered, an IP address identifies computers on the Internet. If your computer is hosting a web server, its IP address is what identifies it to the rest of the Internet.
A computer on the Internet can have a static IP address, which means it stays the same over time, or a dynamic IP address, which means the address can change over time.
When you sign up for WOW for small business, you can choose to have no static IPs (that is, dynamic IPs for all your devices), one static IP, or multiple static IPs.
Why use a Static IP Address?
Another way to think of a static IP address is to think of it as being no different from your permanent home address. Your address will not change unless you move to a new place. The reason why you would want to stick to one place is so that you are easier to locate, and this use case applies to a static IP address as well.
If you would like to have a file server in your network, host a website, access programs remotely, and so on, then you will most definitely need a static IP address. Since a static IP address remains the same, your devices will know how to contact those devices that have a static IP address.
Failing to use a static IP address, especially if you want to host a website or use a VPN to your firewall, will be quite the hassle. The reason why it will be problematic is due to the fact your device will get a new IP address each time, and each time you will have to configure your router to forward requests to your new IP address. Failing to do so will mean users will not be able to get to your website, as your router will not identify the device in your network that is hosting your website.
What if your Static IP Address Changes?
If your service provider notifies you that your IP addressing will change, you can contact ETS and we can help you through this transition with little downtime. Contact us today at sales@elitetechus.com or call us at 256-306-3361
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