As some VPN providers assign users a different IP address each and every time they log on, other providers offer a static IP address that will be unique to you and your device for the lifetime of your subscription to their service. Today we will look at what the difference is and what scenarios are most advantageous to having a static IP VPN.
Static and Dynamic IP addresses explained
When you connect to a VPN for the first time, you are assigned an IP address as the VPN encrypts your data as it travels out into the wider internet. If you were using a Dynamic IP address service, the next time you logged into your VPN that IP address would be different. Some providers instead offer a static IP, this means each and every time you log into your VPN the IP address that is used is unique and locked to your device or connection. If you are using a dynamic IP address, this means that you are sharing that IP with all the customer your provider serves, but a static IP means that only you will have access to that IP. This difference between IP address will largely affect how you use your VPN. A dynamic IP will change based on the server you connect through, it is possible for you to connect to many different servers in multiple countries which allow you to bypass firewalls and access regionally restricted content such as streaming services like Netflix. A static IP address will be locked to just one country for the duration of your subscription and will determine which streaming services you might have access to.
What Benefits Is There To Using A Static IP VPN?
The best argument for using a static IP VPN is that since it constant, you will have more consistent performance and access. This reliability makes using VoiP services like Skype far more consistent and make for a more stable network connection which can be important if you are using your VPN to play games or stream media on an Xbox console or other device. The static IP VPN also makes it feasible to use your computer as a server, allowing secure access to send and receive files and folders from your hard disk. If you are a small business owner, this ability can affect your potential workflow potential. A static IP will also stabilize your connection further allowing a faster download and upload of your files. One definitive benefit of having a static IP is that the address is always going to be yours. Many services such as Hulu, gaming related, or otherwise will ban users as deemed necessary by blocking the IP address. If a user before you, used the IP you just connected to and behaved poorly resulting in a ban, you will be unable to access the service until you get a new IP address.
What Are The Downsides To Static IP VPNs?
While static IP VPN has many advantages, it is now without its downsides. A static IP VPN can be less secure and easier for others to keep tabs on. Since you are using up one IP address, this means your provider will have to provide more potential IP addresses which may result in the cost being passed onto you. You will also be locked into the IP from whatever country you chose, so if you chose badly or change your mind later on you will be out of luck and stuck with your initial choice. In the end, choosing between a dynamic or static IP will remain up to you, if you want to explore your options our table below has comparisons of the top static IP VPN providers to give you the full picture:
| Rank | Provider Name | Starting Price | Money Back Guarantee |
Visit Provider Site |
| 1 |  |
$6.67/ Month | 30 Days |  |
| 2 |  |
$11.52/ Month | 30 Days | |
| 3 |  |
$14.95/Month | 7 Days | |
| 4 |  |
$10.00/ Month | 7 Days | |
| 5 |  |
$21/ 3 Months | 7 Days | |
