How to Set Up a Static IP Address on Your Device
Configuring a static IP address is a fairly simple process, but the exact steps differ depending on the device you use. In this article, we’ll cover easy ways to set one up on mobile and desktop devices, so you can get it done with no hassle. We’ll also cover when a static IP makes sense and when it doesn’t, in case you’re still deciding whether it’s right for you.
What Is a Static IP Address?
A static IP address is an IP address that doesn’t change; it remains the same every time your device connects to a network. It’s like your street address – it’s fixed and makes you easy to find.
There are two main forms of static IP addresses: local and network (or public). A network static IP is assigned to give you internet access, while a local static IP is assigned to a device to facilitate internal network communications.
In this article, we will discuss local static IP addresses, referring to them as static IPs or static IP addresses throughout. These are the types you can assign to your devices as needed. In contrast, public static IPs are generally assigned by network administrators or your ISP.
Private Internet Access offers dedicated IPs, which are a type of static public IP that only belong to you, as an add-on to your VPN subscription.
Our Dedicated IP addresses are assigned via a token-based system. You generate the private key yourself on our website and simply copy it into your app, where it gets converted into a unique IP address. This makes it extremely difficult to trace the IP address back to your VPN account because you’re the only one who gets the private key to create it.
When You Need a Static IP Address
You only need a static IP address in specific situations.
Most devices use dynamic IP addresses by default, and for good reason. These addresses are automatically assigned by a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server, and the minute you disconnect from the network, a dynamic IP can be reassigned. This means that network admins don’t need to configure each device manually.
Here’s when and why you might want to use a static IP instead of a dynamic one:
- Hosting a server: Running a web, email, or game server using a static IP makes it easier for others (and the network) to find you because the address is always the same.
- Remote access: A consistent IP address provides a reliable connection for accessing remote resources, such as cameras or computers, outside your network.
- Port forwarding: If you want to use port forwarding on your router for gaming, self-hosted services, or home automation, the destination device needs a fixed IP address. This helps your router reliably direct incoming traffic to the correct device.
The Advantages & Disadvantages of Using a Static IP Address
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| ✅ Simplifies DNS server configuration and management | ❌ Increases vulnerability to attacks |
| ✅ Helps the network locate a server more quickly | ❌ Can be expensive compared to a dynamic IP |
| ✅ Enables smoother remote access connections | ❌ Makes devices easier to locate unless masked |
| ✅ Delivers more reliable VoIP communications | ❌ Requires stronger security hygiene (firewalls, patching, access controls) |
| ✅ Improves geolocation accuracy due to a fixed location | ❌ A limited number of static IPs are available |
How to Get a Static Public IP Address
You can generally get a static public IP from your ISP. If you work remotely, your company may lend a static IP to your device at no charge for the duration of your contract.
Most ISPs, however, charge a flat monthly rate for a static IP, and some mobile providers go by usage. ISPs and mobile providers may reuse a static IP address once it’s unassigned, but they rarely offer one for free.
PIA VPN allows you to add an affordable dedicated IP to your subscription either during checkout or via your account dashboard. You can choose from 20 dedicated IP locations in the US, the UK, Canada, Germany, Japan, Australia, Singapore, Switzerland, Sweden, and Belgium.
How to Set Up a Static IP Address (Local)
Before You Start
Before setting up a local static IP address, you’ll need a few details about your network to avoid IP conflicts or connectivity issues.
- Your network subnet: Your static IP must be on the same subnet as your router. This subnet also defines the range your router’s DHCP server uses to assign automatic IPs, so your static IP should sit outside the DHCP range.
- Your router IP/default gateway: This is the local address of your router and the path your device uses to reach the internet. It’s commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
- Subnet mask: This defines which IP addresses belong to your local network. On most home networks, this is 255.255.255.0.
- DNS server addresses (optional): Some devices let you set DNS manually. You can usually use your router’s IP or a public DNS provider (such as 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1).
The process of setting up a static IP address varies based on your device manufacturer and OS. We’ve included basic instructions for all major devices and routers below, so you can get a static IP address on any device hassle-free.
Note: Setting up a static IP address for your device will only change your local IP, not your network IP.
How to Set Up a Static IP on iOS
Step 1: Open Settings.
Step 2: Tap Wi-Fi.
Step 3: Select the information (i) icon next to your current Wi-Fi connection.
Step 4: Then choose Configure IP under IPv4 Address.
Step 5: Enter your new static IP address and all relevant details into the appropriate fields, then tap Save in the upper-right corner.
How to Set Up a Static IP on Android
Step 1: Open Settings and choose Connections.
Step 2: Tap on your current Wi-Fi connection.
Step 3: Select the Settings icon next to the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to, then scroll down to IP settings.
Step 4: Tap IP settings and choose Static.
Step 5: Enter all relevant details into the appropriate fields and then tap Save.
How to Set Up a Static IP on Windows 11
Step 1: Open Settings.
Steps 2 & 3: Choose Network & Internet, then click the > icon next to your current Wi-Fi connection.
Step 4: In the next window, click the Edit button next to IP assignment.
Step 5: In the Edit network IP settings pop-up, choose Manual from the drop-down menu.
Step 6: Choose your IP version. In most cases, you’ll want IPv4. Enter all relevant details into the appropriate fields and click the Save button.
How to Set Up a Static IP on macOS
Step 1: Open the Apple menu and click on System Settings or System Preferences.
Step 2: Click Network in the next window.
Step 3: Select your current Wi-Fi connection, then click the Advanced button.
Step 4: Select TCP/IP, then open the Configure IPv4 dropdown menu and select Manually. Enter your IPv4 address in the appropriate field and click the OK button.
How to Set Up a Static IP on Linux
Step 1 & 2: Open Network Manager and select Wi-Fi, then click the gear icon next to your current connection.
Steps 3 & 4: Click IPv4 in the left-hand menu. In the upper-right corner of the window, toggle the IPv4 button on. Enter all relevant details into the appropriate fields, then click Apply.
How to Set Up a Static IP for Your Device Through a Router
Note: To assign a static IP to a device through your router, you’ll need its MAC address first. This address allows the router to recognize the device and reserve the same IP for it every time it connects. Below are quick instructions for finding a device’s MAC address on popular operating systems:
- Windows: Command Prompt > Type ipconfig /all > Press Enter > Locate the MAC address in the Physical Address section.
- macOS: Menu > System Settings (or System Preferences) > Network > Choose your connection > Advanced > Hardware > Locate MAC address or Wi-Fi address.
- iOS: Settings > General > About > Scroll down and find the Wi-Fi address (this is the MAC address).
- Android: Settings > About device (or About phone) > Status > Scroll down to Phone Wi-Fi MAC address.
- Linux:Terminal > Type ip addr show > Locate the MAC address listed after link/ether under the network adapter.
Step 1: Enter the router’s IP address into your web browser, and log in using your credentials. You can usually find your router’s IP address on a sticker affixed to the device, along with your default username and password. If it’s not there, just look for the Default Gateway IP on any device connected to the router.
Step 2: Open the LAN Settings. You may find them under the Advanced settings tab, but it varies by router.
Step 3: Enter the MAC address for the device you want to assign a static IP address to.
Step 4: Next, enter the static IP address you wish to use for that device.
Step 5: Click Save (or Apply) and restart your router and device.
How to Set Up a DHCP Reservation Through a Router
DHCP reservation allows your router to assign the same IP address to a device every time it connects, without configuring the IP directly on the device itself. This approach offers many of the same benefits as a static IP. It’s useful for devices that automatically apply firmware upgrades. You set up a DHCP reservation via your router.
Keep in mind that your router must support DHCP reservation for the following steps to work. If using an ISP-provided router, some advanced settings may be limited.
Step 1: Find the MAC address of the device you want to assign the IP address to.
Step 2: Enter your router’s IP address into your browser and log in.
Step 3: Locate and open Advanced settings, then choose Setup.
Step 4: Select LAN Setup and locate the Address Reservation section (this may also be labeled as DHCP Reservation, depending on your router manufacturer).
Step 5: Click the Add button, then enter the IP address you want to assign and the device’s MAC address.
Step 6: Press the Apply (or Save) button.
FAQs
Is a static IP better for gaming?
It’s not better, but it might be faster in several cases. A static IP can be helpful for gaming if you need to set up port forwarding, host game servers, or avoid IP conflicts on your network, as it ensures your device always uses the same internal IP address. However, for most casual online gaming, a static IP won’t improve performance like ping or speed.
How can I get a static IP for free?
You generally can’t get a static IP for free because static addresses are limited and typically reserved by ISPs. Still, a few alternatives can give you similar results, depending on what you need. One is to use a DHCP reservation, which assigns the same IP address to a specific device each time it connects to the network.
Another option is to use a dedicated IP, which can be static (though this isn’t always the case). PIA offers a dedicated IP option with new and existing subscriptions for a small fee. A dedicated IP functions much like a static IP, while offering greater flexibility.
Is a static IP faster?
No, a static IP is not faster than a dynamic IP. Your internet speed and overall performance depend on your ISP and network conditions. If you’re running a server, having a static IP might make incoming connections slightly more efficient, because there’s no need to constantly resolve changing IPs. Even then, the difference is negligible and won’t affect gameplay or browsing speed.
Should I use a static IP or DHCP?
It depends on what you need the IP address for. DHCP is generally the default, but there are instances where you may need a static IP address. It works well for most everyday purposes and makes managing a large network easier. A static IP is better suited for hosting a server (e.g., a gaming server), increasing security for remote access (e.g., accessing work resources), or providing more reliable connections for VoIP and video services.
Can I create a static IP?
No, your ISP must assign it to you. To get one, you’ll need to contact your ISP. You can also subscribe to PIA VPN and add a Dedicated IP to your plan. A dedicated IP is a static IP you can connect to via a VPN. It provides security and flexibility, giving you more control of your connections.
Is a static IP worth it?
It depends on what you want it for. If you run a business that allows remote work, want to host a game server, or use voice or video communications regularly, a static IP is worth the cost. Otherwise, a dynamic IP is sufficient for everyday tasks.
Are a static IP and a dedicated IP address the same thing?
No, a static IP and a dedicated IP aren’t the same. A static IP remains the same, while a dedicated IP is an address used exclusively by you. A dedicated IP can be static, but a static IP isn’t always dedicated. For example, an ISP could assign the same IP to a small group of users (shared static IP).
Can a static IP address be compromised?
Any IP address can be compromised if you aren’t adequately protected. An IP address is essentially a road map directly to your device, and if you leave it exposed, you risk unwanted visitors. If you want to mask your IP address and keep trackers off your tail, add PIA VPN to the mix. That way, you can connect using a dedicated or dynamic IP while keeping your activity more private and harder to trace.
How much does a static IP cost?
Costs vary depending on your ISP or mobile provider. Some providers measure how much data you use while connected to a static IP to determine costs, while others charge a flat monthly fee. You can ask your provider if it offers them with your current plan, but most network providers charge an additional fee for a private IP address (static or dedicated).
