Every device connected to the internet, including your office router, needs an IP address. It works like a postal address for data, telling the internet where to send information back to you.
Most small businesses never think about this. Your broadband just works. But if you're setting up remote access, hosting a server, or trying to work out why your VoIP calls keep dropping, the type of IP address you have starts to matter.
Here's a plain-English guide to static and dynamic IP addresses, what the difference means for your business, and how to decide which one you actually need.
What is a Dynamic IP Address?
A dynamic IP address is the default for almost every business broadband package in the UK. Your provider allocates it automatically and can change it from time to time, usually when your router restarts or reconnects.
You don't need to do anything to get one. It's included as standard, and for most day-to-day tasks, browsing, email, video calls, cloud software, you'll never notice it's there.
What is a Static IP Address?
A static IP address stays fixed. It doesn't change when your router restarts, and it doesn't change over time. Your business gets one address that always identifies your connection.
Providers don't hand these out automatically. You usually have to request one, and most add a small monthly cost on top of your broadband package.
Static IP vs Dynamic IP: Quick Comparison
|
Changes over time |
Yes, set by your provider |
No, stays the same |
| Typical cost | Included as standard | Included with some business broadband plans |
| Best for | General browsing and email | Remote access, business phone lines, guest wifi |
| Set-up effort | Automatic setup | Request from provider or automatic if in plan |
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Why The Difference Matters For Your Business
A changing IP address causes no problems for most small businesses. But there are specific situations where a fixed address becomes genuinely useful, sometimes essential.
Remote Access and VPNs
If your team logs in remotely, a static IP lets you set up a fixed point of entry that's easier to secure and manage. Government data shows why this is worth getting right: only 36% of UK businesses have a VPN in place for staff connecting remotely, despite hybrid and remote working now being standard practice for a large share of the workforce.
Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics show that 39% of working adults in Great Britain now work from home at least some of the time, split between hybrid and fully remote arrangements. If your team is part of that group, a stable, controllable connection point is worth the small monthly cost.
Security & Fixed Access Rules
A static IP allows you to set firewall rules, allowlist specific addresses, and restrict access to your systems to known, trusted locations. This is a basic layer of control, but a valuable one.
The government's Cyber Security Breaches Survey found that 43% of UK businesses identified a cyber breach or attack in the past 12 months, and adoption of fundamental protections like two-factor authentication sits at just 47%.
A fixed IP address won't fix every gap, but it makes it far easier to build reliable, repeatable security rules around your connection.
Hosting a Server, Website or EPOS System
If you host your own website, run a point-of-sale system, or need customers or suppliers to connect directly to something on your network, a static IP keeps that address consistent. Without one, anything relying on your IP address needs reconfiguring every time it changes.
VoIP and Business Phone Systems
Cloud-based phone systems can run on either type of connection, but some providers recommend or require a static IP for the most reliable call quality and easier fault-finding. If you're reviewing your setup, it's worth checking with your phone system provider directly.
What Does a Static IP Cost?
Costs vary by provider, but a static IP is typically a modest monthly add-on to your existing business broadband package, rather than a separate contract. Some business-grade packages include one as standard. Always check what's included before assuming you need to pay extra.
Which One Does Your Business Need?
For most small businesses, a dynamic IP is perfectly fine. Consider a static IP if any of the following apply to you:
- Your team regularly connects remotely, and you want a fixed, secure access point
- You host your own website, server or EPOS system on-site
- You want to set firewall rules based on a known, unchanging address
- Your VoIP or phone system provider recommends one for reliability
If none of these applies, a dynamic IP will do the job without adding cost.
How To Get a Static IP
Ask your broadband provider directly. Most business packages allow you to add a static IP for a small monthly fee. If you're comparing providers or switching broadband anyway, check which packages include one as standard.
Static vs Dynamic IP Address FAQs
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Does a static IP make my internet faster?
No. Speed is a separate factor, determined by your package and connection type. A static IP only affects whether your address changes, not how fast your connection is.
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Is a static IP more secure than a dynamic IP on its own?
Not automatically. A static IP makes it easier to apply consistent security rules, but it needs to be paired with proper controls like a firewall and VPN to make a real difference.
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Can I switch from dynamic to static later?
Yes. You can usually add a static IP to your existing broadband package at any point. Contact your provider to check availability and cost.
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Do I need a static IP for a small office of 2 to 3 people?
Usually not, unless you're hosting your own systems or need fixed remote access. Most small teams run perfectly well on a dynamic IP.
