Are you aware that most networking equipment, such as routers and network switches, now widely use the Internet Protocol as the standard for network communication?
The two most popular protocols are Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) and Static IP. Each electronic device on a network has a unique identification number, or IP address, according to this protocol.
That’s why there are billions of IP addresses in use today!
Now, here’s the thing: Internet Protocol, or IP, is not just for internet connections. Moreover, a wide range of networking applications employ it because it’s open, established, and perfect for both local and Internet connections.
In this article, we will talk about two primary categories of IP addresses: static and dynamic. What sets these two apart? How do you choose between them? And what are the pros and cons of each?
Let’s explore these differences and help you decide which one is right for your network devices.
What is a DHCP?
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), often known as “dynamic IP,” enables a machine to receive an IP address automatically.
Imagine you’re joining a new network with your phone or computer. And you want to connect to the internet but don’t have an IP address yet. That’s where DHCP comes in. It’s like a teacher handing out student IDs to each student in a class.
The DHCP server on the network assigns your device a unique IP address and other settings, like the subnet mask and gateway. This way, your device can communicate with other devices on the network and access the internet.
Now, your IP address is not permanent. It’s only borrowed for a certain period, called the “lease duration.” After that time, your device has to ask for a new IP address or renew the lease. The DHCP server needs to manage the IP numbers on the network and avoid conflicts or duplications.
Dynamic IP addresses, like the ones assigned by DHCP, are perfect for home use and most consumer electronics. Your internet service provider (ISP) uses DHCP to give your device a dynamic IP address.
What is DHCP lease time?
DHCP assigns IP addresses to devices on a network. To avoid running out of IP addresses, DHCP allocates each IP address for a specific period of time, called the lease time. This means that once a device is assigned an IP address, it can keep using it for the allotted time.
For wired devices that don’t move frequently, the lease time is usually seven days, while for wireless devices, it’s shorter, typically 24 hours. This is because wireless devices come and go more often. So, for example, when you use Wi-Fi at a coffee shop or library, you get a new IP address each time you connect.
Halfway through the lease, the device will try to renew the lease with the DHCP server. If the server grants the request, the device can use the IP address for the entire lease time.
Sometimes, IP address renewal traffic can cause network congestion. However, network managers have the flexibility to adjust the default lease time based on the size of their network to avoid it.
What is Static IP?
A static IP address, also known as a “dedicated IP,” is a unique and permanent address that doesn’t change over time. It’s like a home address that never changes; external devices can always use the same address to find it.
Static IP addresses are great for people who know their network and its layout well. With static IP addressing, each device on the network has its own unique address, and you need to configure each one manually.
When you add a new device to the network, you have to choose the “manual” configuration option and enter the IP address, DNS server, default gateway, and subnet mask. Static IP addresses are often used when continued access is necessary, like access to routers and printers.
What’s the Difference Between a Static IP and a DHCP?
When you connect to the internet, your device needs an IP address to communicate with other devices. A Static IP address is like a fixed address manually assigned to your device and never changes. On the other hand, DHCP is a protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network. So, a DHCP address is like a temporary address that can change periodically.
Here are some key differences between Static IP and DHCP:
| DHCP | Static IP |
| Automatically assigns IP addresses | IP address has to be set manually for each device |
| Addresses can change periodically, causing issues for some applications. | Stable. Do not change unless manually done. |
| Can be centrally managed by a DHCP server. | Require manual configuration and management |
| Can be dynamically assigned as needed, allowing for efficient use of available addresses. | Limited availability, as each device on the network requires a unique IP address |
| Affordable | Generally more expensive |
So, using a Static IP or DHCP depends on your specific needs. Servers and other devices that require a constant, reliable address frequently utilize static IP addresses. Besides, when a network device doesn’t need a static address, DHCP addresses are more frequently employed.
Static IP – Pros and Cons
Using Static IP definitely has some benefits.
First, if you’re hosting servers for email, web, or other purposes, a static IP address makes setting up and managing DNS servers simpler. Plus, it helps clients with fixed IPs access your servers more quickly, which is always a plus.
Another great thing about static IP addresses is that they offer faster, more reliable, and more stable download and upload speeds. This is because they never change, so internet users can enjoy a more stable connection.
If you need to provide remote access for employees with a Virtual Private Network (VPN), a static IP address is ideal for that too!
And, if your business requires working with data from geolocation, a static IP address gives you access to more accurate geolocation information than working with a dynamic IP. This can be super useful for asset demographics, location tracking, psychographics, or location-based content personalization.
However, there are also some things to remember regarding static IP addresses. For example, they’re easier to trace, which can cause privacy and security concerns. They are also more expensive than dynamic IPs, even though the service provider typically includes them in corporate ISP plans.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Simplifies DNS server management for hosting servers. | Increases traceability of digital footprint, raising privacy and security concerns. |
| Provides faster and more stable download/upload speeds. | Often more expensive than dynamic IPs, except for business ISP plans. |
| Ideal for remote access with VPN. Offers accurate geolocation data. | Limits available IP addresses due to each device needing an IP address. |
| More dependable for VoIP and video conferencing applications. |
And finally, once a device is given a static IP address, it is always occupied, even while the computer is off. This limits the number of available IP addresses, so businesses should budget for additional IP addresses.
DHCP – Pros and Cons
Dynamic IP addresses can be helpful for those who want to maintain their privacy online. Using a dynamic IP address lets you leave less of a digital footprint and keep your internet activities anonymous. This is especially important for those who handle confidential information.
Another advantage of dynamic IP addresses is that they make remote administration easier. DHCP routing allows for a centrally controlled infrastructure, which makes it simpler to add, support, and maintain devices. This is great for managing Remote Office/Branch Office (ROBO) networks.
With DHCP, setting up new devices is as simple as assigning them an IP address, shipping them to the office, and connecting them to the network. The device will automatically receive the assigned IP address.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Better anonymity and privacy. | Possible hosting problems and DNS server issues. |
| Remote administration of devices. Flexibility to assign and reassign IP address quickly and automatically. | Unstable connection and lower internet speed. |
| No additional cost for securing a dedicated IP address. | Increased CAPTCHA authentication prompts. |
| Enhanced network security with DHCP and additional security features. | Dependency on DHCP server and device compatibility requirements. |
Flexibility is another benefit of dynamic IP addresses. DHCP IP addresses can be assigned and reassigned quickly and automatically. This makes it easier to reconfigure IP addresses for devices whenever necessary. Plus, there’s no additional cost for securing a dedicated IP address with DHCP.
When it comes to security, dynamic IP addresses make it more difficult for intruders to target your equipment. Network security doesn’t depend solely on IP addresses. Additionally, users usually combine DHCP with additional security features to ensure maximum protection.
But like static IP addresses, dynamic IP addresses have their drawbacks. One issue is that hosting servers and websites typically use static IP addresses, so there may be DNS server issues and additional expenses to bypass conflicts. Additionally, dynamic IP addresses can be unstable, as internet service providers may change them regularly. This can lead to a lapse in the user’s connection and lower internet speed, which can be a problem for web servers and internet phone calls.
Another disadvantage is increased CAPTCHA authentication. A DHCP environment may prompt you for CAPTCHA verification more often, which can disrupt your workflow. There’s also a risk with CAPTCHA questions since hackers can disguise viruses and malware downloads through them.
Lastly, if you’re using a dynamic IP address, your device must support DHCP configuration and align with DHCP server requirements. If the DHCP server is down, your device won’t have a working IP address.
DHCP vs. Static IP – What to Choose?
When it comes to deciding between static IP or DHCP for your business, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. You need to consider several factors, such as the size and complexity of your network, the type and function of your devices, and your network security preferences and business goals.
To help you make an informed decision, here are some scenarios to consider:
- Network size: For extensive and complicated networks, use DHCP as it supports scalability for allocating IP addresses in large- and medium-sized networks.
- Availability of IP addresses: If your network has limited IP addresses, it’s best to use static IP routing to prevent IP address exhaustion and avoid resource depletion.
- Mobility of devices: DHCP IP allocation is more practical for mobile devices that frequently move out or between networks.
- Network management: DHCP servers can automatically assign and manage the IP address space, eliminating the need for manual IP configuration for devices, reducing the possibility of human errors, and mitigating risks.
- Fault tolerance: DHCP offers more fault tolerance than static IP allocation by providing redundancy and failover options. Dynamic routing enables seamless data transfer between routers, whereas static routing is not fault-tolerant.
- Remote access: If you require hosting service inside your local network and direct access to it from remote offices or branch offices worldwide, a static IP address can ensure a connection that is always accessible.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so consider all the factors carefully before deciding whether to use static IP or DHCP for your business network.
In Conclusion
If you want to choose the best IP address type for your device, consider its mobility and network type. DHCP is great for devices that move around a lot, like laptops or tablets, while static IPs are a better fit for stationary devices like printers or servers.
Remember, your business type can also impact your IP address choice. For instance, hotels might choose a static IP address while their guests’ devices use dynamic IP addresses.
To keep your devices safe from cyberattacks, it’s a good idea to use security measures like router firewalls, VPNs, or internet security suites. Both static and dynamic IP addresses have their security risks, but taking these extra steps can help address them.
DHCP and static IP routing are typically used together with additional security measures to allocate IP addresses.