How to use a static IP address for businesses

Are you looking to secure a permanent spot on the internet for your business? Consider getting a static Internet Protocol (IP) address. 

Think of IP addresses as the digital equivalent of your home address but for your online devices. Yet, with each internet connection, a dynamic IP address changes like a rented place, while a static IP remains the same as a residential address. 

This permanent address makes your business easy to locate and connect with online. Fixed IP is perfect for hosting websites, enabling remote work, or using voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP). 

Let's explore whether a static IP fits your business needs, how to get one from your internet service provider (ISP), and how to set it up quickly with NordLayer.

When your business should use a static IP

A static IP, or dedicated IP, is a fixed numeric combination that doesn't change over time. Thus, its consistency is the main advantage for businesses needing stable and dependable internet access.

Choosing to use a static IP address is crucial for enterprises that want to improve their online presence. If your business needs a constant, unchanging internet address, ensure this choice aligns properly with your network's technical requirements, including the internet protocol version (IPv4 or IPv6) it uses.

Choosing a static IP over a dynamic IP depends on what your business does and the benefits you're looking for. Here are some clear reasons why choosing a static IP might be right for you:

• Remote work. A static IP helps remote employees connect securely to your network, making it easier for them to access files and applications just like they would in the office.
• Hosting servers. If your business runs its own email, website, or file transfer protocol (FTP) servers, a static IP means customers and employees can connect without interruption. 
• Online services. For services needing constant connection, like VoIP (internet calls) or online gaming, a static IP reduces the chance of losing connection, similar to how a steady electricity supply keeps the lights on.
• Network management. With a fixed IP, managing your network and solving problems is easier since each device's address doesn't change. 
• Security. Static IPs make it simpler to control who can access your network, which enhances security.
• E-commerce. For online shops, a static IP can help secure transactions.
• Communication. Keeping email and collaboration platforms running smoothly is easier with a static IP.
• IoT devices. For businesses using smart devices, a static IP ensures they stay connected and work correctly, much like ensuring delivery trucks follow the same route every day.
• DNS management. Managing your online domain is simpler with a static IP, making your website more reliable for visitors.

Businesses that need stable internet for remote work, hosting, and security benefit from a static IP. It keeps you visible and reachable online. 

Yet, small startups or local shops not focused on web presence might do well with dynamic IPs, enjoying simplicity and cost savings. If you don't host servers or need constant online access, a dynamic IP address could suit your needs just fine.

How to set a static IP address for your business

Setting up a static IP address for your company is like assigning a permanent street address to your business in the online world. This makes sure that your business is easily found and always reachable on the internet. 

Remember, setting up a static IP is different from setting up a private IP address, which is only for internal use in places like your home or office network.

Here's how you can set up a static IP address, step by step:

1. Ask for a static IP address. Start by requesting a static IP address from your internet service provider (ISP).
2. Configure your router. Your ISP will assign a unique, unchanging IP address to your router. This is your company's address on the internet.

Next, you'll need to manually configure each device that will use this static IP address by entering the latter and other networking details.

Manual setup

Imagine you're giving each device in your office its own specific spot on the internet, much like assigning each employee their own desk. Here's how to manually set a static IP address on each device:

1. Gather information. First, you need the unique address (static IP), subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server information from your ISP. Ensure compatibility with your network adapter. Think of this as the address, zip code, city, and phone directory for your device's location on the internet.
2. Access device IP settings. On the device you want to set up, find the network settings. This is usually under 'Settings' or 'Control Panel'. Ensure your network adapter is properly configured.
3. Enter the information. Look for the option to configure IP settings manually on a device; enter the static IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS information you got from your ISP. Make sure it's compatible with your internet protocol version.
4. Save and restart. After entering the information, save your changes. You might need to restart the device for the new IP settings to take effect.

If your company's network automatically assigns IP addresses (using DHCP), you can adjust your router's settings. This way, it will always give the same specific static IP address to certain devices, like a reserved parking spot. 

Automatic setup

Let's say you want to automatically assign a special spot on the internet to certain devices. This is how you can set a static IP up using DHCP on your router:

1. Access your router. Enter your router's IP address into a web browser. You'll need the login details, usually found on the router or in its manual.
2. Find DHCP settings. Look for the DHCP or network settings menu in your router's settings. DHCP is like a parking attendant who assigns spots to devices.
3. Reserve an IP. In the DHCP settings, look for an option to reserve IPs or assign a fixed IP. Here, you can choose which devices get which fixed IP addresses, based on their MAC address (a unique identifier for network devices).
4. Enter device details. For each device you want to assign a static IP address, enter its MAC address and the fixed IP you wish it to always use, which ties back to the network adapter's configuration.
5. Save and restart. Save your changes and restart your router. Some devices might also need a restart to recognize their new reserved spot.

To wrap it up, assigning a fixed IP address establishes a clear, permanent online presence. It makes your business easy to find and reach on the internet. 

The steps include asking your ISP for a static address, setting up your router, and getting your devices ready, either one by one or all at once, using DHCP. 

The time needed might vary, from just a few minutes to a couple of hours, based on how many devices you have and how complex your network is. 

Is it safe to use a static IP address? 

Using a dedicated IP address for your business is mostly safe, but you need to be careful. A fixed IP stays the same, making it a bit easier for threat actors to spot and possibly attack your network if you're not protected well. 

To keep your network safe, it's important to use strong security practices. 

1. Set up firewalls to watch over your internet traffic. 
2. Use VPNs to securely connect remote employees and devices to internal network resources from any location, as VPN encryption obscures network traffic in transit, functioning somewhat like a tunnel to safeguard sensitive data traveling outside your protected business environment.
3. Also, make sure all your devices that connect to the network, like computers and phones, have the latest security updates installed.

That's how to use a fixed IP address. It allows you to have a permanent, reliable spot on the internet for your business while keeping the risks low. Just remember to keep everything secure.

Get a static IP address with NordLayer

Setting up a dedicated IP address for your business with NordLayer is easy and straightforward. It boosts your network's security and makes sure only your team can access it. 

Here’s a simple way to do it:

1. Pick a plan. First, choose a NordLayer plan that fits your business needs. You can choose from Core or Premium plans, both of which let you set a static IP address.
2. Create a Virtual Private Gateway in the Control Panel. Simply name it, assign teams, and choose your preferred server location. The process is user-friendly and guided.
3. Access your static IP address. Once your gateway is set up, your fixed IP address will be visible. With this fixed IP, you can whitelist resources, connect to remote networks, implement network segmentation policies, and apply DNS filtering, among other tasks.

It's all about making your business more secure and flexible with easy-to-follow steps. Our sales team is always here if you need any help along the way.