Static and Dynamic IP Address

There are two types of IP addresses – static and dynamic

Static IP addresses are the same every time you connect to the Internet. They’re used by all major websites, email services, FTP services and so on. Dynamic IP addresses may change each time you connect to the Internet and every time you send a message over the Internet. 

When would I need dynamic IP addresses? 

You may require dynamic IP addresses if you use our broadband services for any of the following:  

1. 1. Browsing the Internet
   
   
2. Sending and receiving emails via an off-site mail server (the normal method and typically using your ISPs mail server) or a typically web based mail service such as Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo etc
    
3. Downloading or uploading files (using FTP or HTTP) 
     
   
4. Instant messaging services or chat services 
   
   
5. Running services such as web or FTP servers that ONLY require access from your local area network (single site) or perhaps within a multi-site corporate network, and DO NOT require or allow access from the Internet.   A single dynamic public IP address will automatically be allocated to your Business Broadband service. Dynamic IP addresses can change if you reset your gateway device or switch it off and on again. IP addressing within your network is then managed by the DHCP (Dynamic Host Control Program) server built into the gateway. Each connected device will be dynamically allocated an IP address when it’s connected to one of your networks. Once allocated a private IP address, each of your devices can communicate with other devices and services on your network and the public Internet via the Hitron Network Address Translation (NAT) function. 

When would I need a static IP address? 

You may require one or more static IP addresses if you’re using our broadband service for any of the following: 

1. Run one or more web servers directly on your site that require external access from the Internet
   
   
2. Run one or more email servers directly on your site that require external access from the Internet
   
   
3. Run one or more FTP servers directly on your site that require external access from the Internet
   
   
4. Run one or more DNS servers directly on your site that require external access from the Internet
   
   
5. Run any other service or apps that require external access from the Internet. Some licensed applications use a static IP address for licensing purposes. 

Static IP Requests

When ordering your Virgin Media services our sales team will capture your IP address requirements however if after your installation you find you require a static IP get in touch with our team directly.