Every computer that connects to the internet has an Internet Protocol (IP) address. However, not all IP addresses are the same in appearance or behavior. Both internet and your network are linked through IP addresses.
In this article, we will examine the different types of Internet protocol along with their key features.
Before proceeding further, let us first understand the concept of IP (Internet protocol) address.
IP (Internet Protocol) Address
An IP address is a number that is assigned to each device on an internet protocol network. They identify computers and devices and allow them to communicate with one another in the same way that your physical address tells people where to send your birthday card.
IP addresses are internally stored as numbers. While computers prefer numbers, humans prefer names.
The Internet employs the Domain Name systems (DNS) as an internet address book, allowing you to navigate the internet and address devices on your network using words, such as www.htshosting.org, rather than numerals. These devices could be anything that has an internet connection.
When you enter a URL into your web browser, DNS is used to determine the IP address for that domain.
There are four types of IP addresses, namely public, private, static, and dynamic IP addresses.
The location of the network influences both public and private addresses.
Let's move on to the other two kinds of IP addresses: static and dynamic.
What is a Static IP address?
IP addresses that do not change are known as static IP addresses. When you give a device a static IP address, that number usually stays the same until the device is decommissioned or your network architecture changes.
Servers and other critical equipment typically use static IP addresses. They are also given to you by your internet service provider (ISP).
Depending on the terms of your service agreement, your internet service provider may or may not assign you a static IP address.
However, IPv4 and IPv6 are the most commonly used versions of IP addresses.
However, the majority of devices use IPv4 addresses, which look like 151.162.150.82
Here, each segment of IP address represents the following:
151.162.xx.xx- The first half of your IP address identifies your network. Depending on where you live, it could refer to an internet service provider or a broader set of devices.
xx.xx.150.82- The second half of the IP address identifies your host as well as each machine on your network.
Remember that this is only the example of an IP address to clearly understand internet protocol.
Static IPs are preferred by businesses that provide dedicated internet services, such as web hosting, due to their consistency.
Advantages
Improved DNS support
More dependable communication
Simple remote access
More credible geo-location services
Disadvantages
More vulnerable to hacking
Difficult to setup and manage
Comes with an additional charge
What is a Dynamic IP address?
Dynamic IP addresses, as the name suggests, are subject to change. Dynamic addresses are assigned by servers that support the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). Because IPv4 does not provide enough static IP addresses, we use dynamic addresses.
Your internet service provider’s DHCP server may assign your home or office a dynamic IP address on the internet.
Your network router is most likely the one that assigns dynamic IP addresses to your devices in your home or business network. Consumer electronics use and support Dynamic IP as a standard.
In comparison to static IP addresses, dynamic IP addresses are less expensive to deploy and manage. They are not, however, appropriate in all circumstances.
Advantages
Easy and automatic configured
Cost-effective
Better Security
Less prone to hacking
Disadvantages
Limits remote access
Can cause downtime
Has an impact on the performance of geolocation services
Unlikely to be useful for hosted services
Which is better, static IP or dynamic IP?
Servers and peripherals are the two types of devices that are most commonly assigned static IP addresses.
Static IP addresses are required in certain situations, such as
Using allow-listed IP addresses to connect to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Using allow-listed IP addresses to gain access to website the admin section
Remote access to your devices
Many web hosts and email providers provide static IP addresses as add-ons or perks with certain plans. However, a static IP address is not required for running a website.
Employers and other network administrators can decide who has access to the system by allowing-listing IP addresses, which are critical for security.
Dynamic addresses change frequently, making them more difficult to locate. However, keep in mind that a DHCR server failure can result in network-wide downtime.
Dynamic IP addresses are by far the best option for local networks and home users because they provide much-needed security at a low cost.
Conclusion:
Static IP addresses are typically recommended for businesses that host their own websites and internet services. Static IP addresses are also useful when remote workers connect to the network through a VPN.
Dynamic IP addresses are sufficient for the vast majority of consumers. They are typically less expensive and pose fewer security risks.
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