Static IP for Business: Why It’s Essential for Remote Access and Security

Many businesses wonder about the difference between static vs dynamic IPs and whether a static IP is worthwhile. While not every organization needs a static IP, there are definite advantages to having one when you want to optimize cybersecurity for small business. A static IP can help improve remote access and security for only a small additional investment in your business internet. 

Interested in learning more? Contact the specialists at WOW! Business with any questions, and we will be happy to assist you. 

What is the Difference Between a Static and a Dynamic IP Address? 

Your IP address is the way other devices find your network. Most IP addresses are dynamic, which means they change from time to time. This isn’t a problem for most, like home internet users. But for businesses, it can be helpful to have a stable, static IP address that stays the same over the long term. 

With a dynamic IP, your IP address can change for a variety of reasons. When your internet service provider (ISP) decides it’s time to change the address, it changes the address, and you have no control over what it changes to. But if you are paying for a static IP, you are guaranteed to keep the same IP address for as long as you are paying for it. 

How Does a Static IP Improve Remote Access and Network Security? 

For businesses that need reliable remote access, a static IP is a must. When your IP address stays the same, it makes it easier for employees to connect to the network with a virtual private network (VPN). They don’t need to reconfigure their settings every time they connect, as can happen with a dynamic IP address. 

Network security options improve when you have a static IP. The administrator of the network can track and monitor traffic much more easily when the IP address is the same. A static IP also makes it possible to implement more comprehensive firewalls and detection systems for intruders. 

The Many Benefits of a Static IP Address 

A static IP for business offers a variety of benefits. Some of these include: 

Reliable Remote Access 

With a static IP, remote workers can establish a secure connection with your network from anywhere with an internet connection by using a VPN. If the IP address keeps changing, though, then workers have to keep reconfiguring their connection. Static IP gives you secure remote access without the need to keep changing the target address of the service. 

Better Security 

Network administrators have more tools available to protect the network when they have a static IP to work with. In particular, they can implement access controls that ensure only those you trust have access to sensitive parts of the network. 

Network Stability 

When you need stability, a static IP is the way to go. It remains constant every time devices connect to the network. For services like websites, this stability allows for a more stable and faster Domain Name System (DNS) resolution. A stable address keeps servers accessible at the same address all the time as well. 

Better Performance from VoIP and Remote Services 

Internet phone works with both dynamic and static IPs, but there are advantages when you have a static IP. The stable address with a static IP makes it easier for the VoIP system to reach each device. It also offers better call quality and allows you to use advanced features like call routing and call forwarding. 

Like with remote workers, many types of remote services benefit from a static IP. Any service that needs to access your network remotely is going to operate more smoothly when the address stays the same. Whether you are hosting websites or using FTP servers, a stable address will make the remote service more consistent and easier to operate. 

Downsides of Dynamic IPs 

A static IP will cost more than a dynamic IP, so it’s common for business owners to ask whether the cost is justified for their business. It’s worthwhile to consider some of the most obvious concerns with a dynamic IP, such as: 

Less Remote Access Control 

If remote access is important for your business, a dynamic IP is going to present some problems. That’s because your dynamic IP address can change at any time without warning. ISPs can change dynamic addresses at their discretion. Each time the address changes, your team must adapt. 

Changing IP addresses makes it hard to consistently connect to your network. It’s not impossible, but it requires extra steps and time. Your employee’s time could likely be better spent on business tasks rather than updating access configurations. 

Increased Security Risks 

It’s more difficult to identify who is accessing your network when you have a dynamic IP. More robust security measures are available when your address remains consistent. You can still maintain a basic level of security, but not as comprehensively with a dynamic IP. 

Contact Us for All Your Business Internet Solutions 

If you are wondering if switching to a static IP will affect your current internet service plan, no worries! The transition can be seamless. We can explain the process when you speak with us about our business internet solutions. 

Upgrade to a static IP and take control of your business’s security and connectivity by getting in touch with WOW for Business today.