Knowledgebase

All devices connected to the Internet are identified by an IP address. "IP" stands for Internet Protocol. Just as each street address uniquely identifies a building or residence, an IP address or a range of IP addresses can identify a specific web server on the Internet.

A static IP address, in relation to web hosting, is an IP number that is assigned to a web server. There can be many static IP addresses assigned to one web server. In this case, "static" just means that they are fixed to that server. Web sites on the server can be assigned to the same IP address, some sites can be assigned to the same IP address while others are assigned to different IP addresses, or each web site can be assigned its own unique IP address.

What is the difference between a static IP address and a dedicated IP address? When a web site on a shared web server is assigned its own unique static IP address it is called a dedicated IP address. No other site on the server shares the address. To explain further, think of the web server as an apartment building. Each apartment in the building has its own address (apartment number) which uniquely identifies it from other apartments in the building. When a web site on a shared web server is assigned a dedicated IP address, the web site is uniquely identified from other sites on the server. You have probably heard the phrase "static IP address" used to define a dedicated IP address, however, static just means non-moving as compared to dynamic. Dynamic IPs are commonly used by Internet Access providers or ISPs, not by hosting companies on their web servers.

The fact is, many web sites can be assigned to one static, non-moving IP address, that is why we use the term "dedicated IP address" instead when one IP number is assigned to only one web site. This becomes crucial if you are using an SSL Certificates. In this situation you must have a dedicated IP address so that the SSL Certificate is specific to your IP address and therfore your website only.