If you plan to establish a safe and permanent online presence for your organization, you may want to consider using an IP address. Also referred to as the Internet Protocol address, it’s like your unique phone number for your Internet-linked devices and gadgets. Most businesses use a static IP because it provides a consistent direction, making it easier for online connections. Further, customers, clients, and other organizations locate businesses with a static IP. In this article, we’ll look at the reasons and use of static or fixed IP address for small businesses.
Why Should Your Business Use a Fixed IP Address?
Hosting Services
If your business hosts an email server or website, a static IP address allows you to reach these services consistently. With a constantly changing business IP address, it is difficult for your clients and customers to access your services online.
Improved Security
Studies reveal that businesses with fixed IP addresses have better cybersecurity. It is critical to incorporate a static Internet Protocol to practice and maintain well-defined security measures, such as intrusion detection systems, firewall configurations, and secure access control, while complying with fixed IP rules and regulations.
Seeking Remote Access
Every modern business requires a remote network to access devices, databases, and files from anywhere. Thanks to a fixed or static IP, your organization can set up a remote desktop or VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection, ensuring a secure and stable internet connection while staff work from multiple locations.
Authentic Communication
Organizations that depend on real-time communication through video conferencing and business VoIP tools can significantly benefit from fixed IP addresses. A static IP helps organizations establish uninterrupted and trustworthy communications and interactions without dropping calls or connections due to changing IP addresses.
Online Applications and Services
Often, online applications and services require small businesses to add their Internet Protocol addresses to specific websites or email domains to allow access. With a static IP address, your organization enjoys uninterrupted access to online applications and services without needing constant updates due to changing IP addresses.
Remote Surveillance
If your organization uses remote surveillance systems and tools like IoT (Internet of Things) or CCTV cameras, a static IP is crucial. A fixed Internet Protocol address helps the organization access and handle surveillance devices from anywhere. Thanks to a fixed IP address, your organization can remotely control and monitor surveillance operations.
How Can You Set Up a Static IP Address for Your Business?
To install a static Internet Protocol (IP) address for your business, you should request one from your Internet service provider. On approval, your Internet Service Provider assigns your business a fixed, unique Internet Protocol address. The next step involves manually configuring the devices and gadgets to use a static IP address and network.
How to Manually Set Up?
Step 1: Acquiring Data
Your business needs the DNS server info, default gateway, subnet mask, and static ip from the local Internet Service Provider. You should ensure network adapter compatibility.
Step 2: Access IP Settings
You should access network settings for the devices you want to install under the Control Panel or Settings Option. Further, you should assemble the network adapter.
Step 3: Entering Info
You should manually configure the device by entering the DNS information, default gateway, subnet mask, and a static IP address.
Step 4: Saving and Restarting
Save all the changes after manually entering the info, restart the device, and enjoy the new Internet Protocol configuration.
How to Automatically Install?
For automatic installation, you should adjust the settings of your router.
Step 1: Accessing the Router
Step 2: You should enter the login details of your router.
Step 3: Search Network Setting Menu
Step 4: The next step involves finding the network or DHCP menu in the router’s settings option.
Step 5: Booking or Reserving a Static IP Address
Step 6: You should specify a fixed Internet Protocol address for your business.
Step 7: Entering the Details
Step 8: You can assign a distinct fixed IP address for each business device by maintaining the network adapter configuration.
Step 9: Saving and Restarting
After entering the necessary information, save and then restart the router.
Conclusion
A static IP provides an uninterrupted online presence and helps customers and clients find your services. You can manually or automatically install the fixed Internet Protocol address based on the Internet Service Providers and the network complexity.
