How to set up a static IP address for different devices - Atlas VPN (2024)

Choosing to set up a static IP address is relevant when you want websites or devices to remember your IP. Static means that your IP address does not change, simplifying things like hosting and remote access.

Usually, users work with static or dynamic IP addresses for their devices. However, assigning a fixed IP address can ease many internal tasks of home networks. For instance, if you set up a static IP when hosting game servers, you won’t need to update the IP info.

What is a static IP address?

A static IP address is an Internet Protocol (IP) address that does not change. So, once you have assigned a static IP address, it will remain the same until further notice.

To set up a static IP, you will need to go through advanced settings and reserve them on your local network. The static IP address remains even if the device disconnects from the internet connection.

Configurations can allow tablets, routers, phones, laptops, or other devices like Raspberry Pi to have a static IP address.

Dynamic and static IP address differences

Here is a brief run-through of static vs. dynamic IP addresses:

1. Each time a device goes online, it receives an IP address.
2. The router assigns the next-in-line free IP address to the connecting device.
3. Usually, IP will be dynamic, meaning it will change every time devices join the network.
4. IP addresses can also expire, or, in other words, devices lose their dynamic IP addresses.
5. If you set up a static IP, this cycle does not happen. Instead, the chosen device retains the IP as long as the network configurations persist.
6. Sometimes, users might need to obtain an IP address from their Internet Service Provider (ISP).

DHCP and static IP addresses

DHCP reservation is a familial term. It means assigning a static IP at the router level. Essentially, you can assign a static IP through Windows network settings. However, it is also possible to do it through the router’s admin panel.

You will also need the MAC address of the device you wish to configure at the router level. An IP address identifies computers on the internet, and MAC addresses represent devices on networks.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) provides IP addresses and other networking settings to devices automatically.

How about dedicated IP addresses?

Static IP and dedicated IP addresses present the same concept: IP addresses that do not change. However, people use them in slightly different situations.

A dedicated IP address is a unique string assigned to a particular person or organization. In many contexts, people use static and dedicated addresses as synonyms.

When should you use a static IP address

It can be difficult to remember which device gets which IP address. The issue persists for many advanced networking tasks. Generally, you set a static IP address to prevent it from expiring.

• Static IP simplifies VPN or other remote access processes. Since the static IP address never changes, other devices will always know how to contact them.
• Fixed IP is useful for ensuring DNS servers work correctly. You won’t need to reconfigure DNS servers on routers or computers. However, dynamic DNS could also help to keep things running efficiently.
• People need static IPs if they are website or server hosts. While static IP is not a requirement for hosting web servers, it smoothens the setup and maintenance.

How to set up static IP addresses

Here are guidelines to set up a static IP for devices with different operating systems.

You should also remember the ranges of IP addresses:

• 10.0.0.0 through 10.255.255.255
• 172.16.0.0 through 172.31.255.255
• 192.168.0.0 through 192.168.255.255

You can set up static IP addresses directly through devices’ settings. However, it is also possible to achieve this via router settings. Many routers refer to static IP as DHCP reservation.

Essentially, your router will reserve your selected IP address for your chosen device. You will also need to provide the MAC address of the device.

Set up a static IP on Windows

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network and internet.
3. Pick your network address name.
4. Open Manage known networks, select Properties, and then IP settings.
5. Pick Edit and then click Manual.
6. Enable IPv4.
7. Type the static IP address you wish to have and press enter.
8. Write 24 in the Subnet prefix length section.
9. Input ipconfig/all into the window and provide your gateway information.
10. Finally, click Save.

Set up a static IP on macOS

1. Open System Preferences.
2. Open the Network section and pick the network you use.
3. Go for the Advanced option.
4. Pick TCP/IP.
5. Click Configure IPv4 and select Manually.
6. Type in the necessary information like the subnet mask.
7. Click OK to get the IP address assigned.

Set up a static IP on Android

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on Network & Internet and then open Wi-Fi.
3. Select the network you currently use.
4. Tap on the pencil icon to open network settings.
5. Open Advanced Options.
6. Navigate to IP settings.
7. Replace DHCP with Static.
8. Fill in the necessary information.
9. Tap Save.

Set up a static IP on iOS

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Wi-Fi.
3. Tap on the information icon right next to the network name.
4. Open the Static section.
5. Tap on the IP address field.
6. Provide the static IP address you want to use.
7. Tap on the Router field to also provide your router’s IP address.
8. Fill in other necessary information.
9. Save settings.

Set up a static IP on Ubuntu

1. Click on the top right network icon and open Wired Settings.
2. Click the settings icon to enter the configuration.
3. Open the IPv4 section and mark Manual.
4. Fill out the necessary information like IP address, netmask, default gateway, etc.
5. The device is assigned the static IP after you click Apply.