Difference – Static, Dynamic, Public & Private IP Addresses

IP addresses are numerical labels assigned to devices connected to a network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. They serve two main purposes: identifying the host or network interface and providing the location of the host in the network. There are different types of IP addresses based on their characteristics and uses: static, dynamic, public, and private.

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Static IP Addresses

  • Definition: A static IP address is a fixed address assigned to a device and does not change over time.
  • Usage: Used for servers, network devices, and equipment that needs a constant IP address, such as web servers, email servers, and any service that requires consistent accessibility.
  • Advantages:
  • Consistent access for remote devices.
    • Easier DNS configuration.
    • Better for hosting servers.
    • Disadvantages:
  • Typically more costly.
  • Potentially more vulnerable to security threats since the address is constant.

Dynamic IP Addresses

  • Definition: A dynamic IP address is assigned by a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server and can change over time.

Usage: Commonly used for home networks and devices that do not need a permanent IP address, such as most personal computers, smartphones, and tablets.

Advantages:

Easier to manage for large networks.

Conserves IP address space.

Generally more secure since the address changes periodically.

  • Disadvantages:
  • Not ideal for hosting servers.
  • Devices may need to reconnect if the IP address changes.

Public IP Addresses

Private IP Addresses

  • Definition: A private IP address is used within a private network and is not routable on the Internet. These addresses are defined by the following ranges:
  • 10.0.0.0 to 10.255.255.255
    • 172.16.0.0 to 172.31.255.255
    • 192.168.0.0 to 192.168.255.255
  • Usage: Used within local networks (LANs) to assign addresses to devices like computers, printers, and smartphones.
  • Advantages:
  • Increases security as these addresses are not directly accessible from the Internet.
    • Conserves public IP address space.
    • Disadvantages:
    • Requires network address translation (NAT) to communicate with devices on the Internet.
  • Limited to local network communication without additional configurations.