Dedicated IP Vs. Shared IP
If you had to choose between dedicated IP and Shared IP, which would you go for?
When it is time to decide between these two, there are vital factors to consider in making such a decision.
What is an IP address?
An IP address works like your regular street address. It helps the internet to identify your device’s and website’s location. Every online connection is built using an IP address with your website, and email is routed through one. Every time you send an email, inbox-sending service providers check the sender’s IP address to determine the source. In essence, your IP address reputation can affect your deliverability. That
Types of IP Addresses
IP addresses are of two major types: Dedicated IP vs. Shared IP.
A dedicated IP address is an IP address alternatively known as static IP. It is specifically allocated to a single user and doesn’t change. So, every time you browse the internet with a dedicated IP, you use a specific IP that has been allocated to you alone and cannot be used by someone else.
Shared IP is shared among different users and changes. Your IP changes upon every connection whenever you browse with a shared IP. While this has some benefits of being more anonymous to the user, one downside is that with the high rate of cybercrimes, there is a high possibility of being provided with an IP address that has already been blacklisted. In addition, because many other VPN users use the IP, it is hard to determine which activity the IP has been used to implement. But this is not the case with static IPs.
Having a static IP is different from having your local IP. You can buy static IP if you want some reasonable level of anonymity and protection on the internet. All your data traffic will be directed via that IP while fully covering your privacy.
What Are the Differences Between a Dedicated IP and Shared IP?
From the definitions and explanations already given, one can already see the core difference between these two types of IP addresses which is that one (dedicated IP) is specifically allocated to a single user and doesn’t change. At the same time, the other (shared IP) is shared between thousands of other users and constantly changes upon every connection.
With a dedicated IP, you always have the same IP address everywhere you are situated and can connect to that single IP address on that specific VPN server. This means that other internet users can consistently predict the safety and genuineness of that IP address since you only use it.
Shared IP is the option for the average VPN user, meaning that a single IP address is also available to several thousands of other VPN users. However, your IP changes every time you build a connection using a shared IP. So, the IP address you used in your last internet access isn’t the same one available to you now. An irregular IP address is a red flag to organizations, businesses, and clients. In addition, your IP address may signal that you are not trustworthy and can be blocked if it constantly changes.
Shared IP addresses are the hotbed of many internet scammers, fraudsters, and hackers. The IP you might have just been assigned may have been used to commit several cybercrimes and may have been blacklisted by different sites. Using such IP stiffens how much you can achieve on the internet. Also, your data and the traffic of dozens of several other people worldwide are sent through a single server. For instance, multiple other users might be trying to access Netflix using the same New York server. This situation risks the platform and propels administrators to flag such access.
Benefits of Using a Dedicated IP Address
A dedicated IP address has many benefits to a user, including enhanced security and site speed since you are a single user. And as a result, you are not likely to be restricted access to any online platform — except if you carry out malicious activity such as sending viruses, malware, or spam emails.
Here are other benefits you’ll get from using a dedicated IP address.
1. Opt-in to Your Site With an IP Address
Since you know your IP is only assigned to you, you can visit your website multiple times by entering your IP address and be confident of secure access.
2. Less Possibility of Being Blacklisted
While many prefer to use shared IP addresses for heightened anonymity, there is a risk of country-specific blocking of your website. A different server user may carry out illegal activities, sending malware, spam email, or viruses, which might directly impact your access if search engines or other platforms block such server access. Using a dedicated IP eliminates the possibility of such unwarranted blocking.
3. Quick Emails
Another benefit of using a dedicated IP is enjoying fast email delivery. In addition, giant mail services offer more trust to users with dedicated IPs than shared IP users. Usually, mail service providers often take extra time on shared IPs since they pose the greater possibility of sending spam messages from email accounts hosted on those IPs.
4. Secure Remote Access
Dedicated IP addresses allow workers to connect to enterprise networks securely with the outrageous increase in threats and attacks due to remote work systems. Most companies using dedicated addresses do not have to be jittery about potential breaches when dedicated IP addresses are used. And even if there is any security breach situation, the issue can be quickly identified since all employees use a unique IP address.
5. Prompt and Safe File Transfer
Since your organization uses a dedicated IP address, you can build your file transfer protocol (FTP) server to share files within the organization. This will let you enjoy better security and a faster file transfer rate.
Final Thoughts
Despite the widespread security breaches resulting from remote activities, using a dedicated IP address can help you mitigate risks, enhance your reputation before various platforms, and grow your business with less worry about security.
Mustafa Al Mahmud is the founder and owner of Gizmo Concept, a leading technology news and review site. With over 10 years of experience in the tech industry, Mustafa started Gizmo Concept in 2017 to provide honest, in-depth analysis and insights on the latest gadgets, apps, and tech trends.
A self-proclaimed “tech geek,” Mustafa first developed a passion for technology as a computer science student at the Hi-Tech Institute of Engineering & Technology. After graduation, he worked at several top tech firms leading product development teams and honing his skills as both an engineer and innovator. However, he always dreamed of having his own platform to share his perspectives on the tech world.
With the launch of Gizmo Concept, Mustafa has built an engaged community of tech enthusiasts who look to the site for trusted, informed takes on everything from smartphones to smart homes. Under his leadership, Gizmo Concept has become a top destination for tech reviews, news, and expert commentary.
Outside of running Gizmo Concept, Mustafa is an avid traveler who enjoys experiencing new cultures and tech scenes worldwide. He also serves as a tech advisor and angel investor for several startups. Mustafa holds a B.S. in Computer Science from HIET.