Enhancing Security and Control: The Importance of a Static IP for Businesses

Small and medium-sized businesses have to take advantage of whatever technologies are available to remain competitive. A static IP for business is one tool that can help companies increase their stability online, making it possible to provide more consistent service for customers and clients while also improving workflow for employees. 

If you are looking for secure business internet, WOW! Business can help. As your internet provider, we can provide you with reliable internet that is not only fast but has enough bandwidth to handle all of your business needs. Contact us now to learn more about our services, including our static IP services. We are standing by to assist you! 

What Is a Static IP? 

A static IP is a fixed address on the internet. Most internet subscribers have a dynamic IP, which can change when the system is rebooted or when the internet service provider (ISP) chooses to change it. This is fine for most users, but for businesses, it can be worthwhile to invest in a static IP. 

There are plenty of advantages that come with having a fixed internet address, including: 

Stricter Firewall Configurations 

A static IP allows businesses to customize their firewall settings in ways that are not possible or more difficult with a dynamic IP. It’s possible to block whatever incoming traffic you don’t want to access your network and control all of the outbound traffic as well. It’s really up to you what you want to allow and prevent when you have a static IP. 

Enhanced Remote Access Reliability 

Many modern businesses rely on remote access, such as having employees work remotely or accessing your system while you are away from the office. Unfortunately, a dynamic IP address can make remote access unreliable. Every time the IP address changes, it makes it difficult for users to access your system remotely. But if you have a static IP address, all the devices that want to access your network can find it much more easily. 

Improve the Overall Management of Network Traffic 

The possibilities of network management increase substantially when you have a static IP. You can add intrusion detection and prevention systems to better protect your network and your devices. It’s also possible to create lists of who can access what and make them as granular as you need. That kind of control can be quite beneficial for businesses that want to protect sensitive data and prevent security vulnerabilities. 

Ideal for Critical Applications 

Sometimes stability is key. In those use cases, a static IP for business is a much better option than a dynamic IP. Some critical applications that benefit from a static IP include:  

• VPNs: Virtual Private Networks are important tools for maintaining privacy and controlling what information your business shares with others. A static IP is ideal for use with VPNs, giving you a dedicated address that presents your business as more reliable and trustworthy. It also streamlines your logins because you don’t have to keep verifying your identity. 

• VoIP: Voice over IP, or internet phone, is the standard for most businesses today because of its affordability and scalability. With a static IP, it becomes much easier for employees and anyone working remotely to access the VoIP system and the company resources that come with it. 

• Hosting: If your business is hosting servers, a static IP becomes very important. It’s how customers can consistently find your services and is a must-have for any business that wants to engage in hosting. 

How To Get a Static IP? 

Getting a static IP is easy. All you need to do is contact your ISP and request one. There is an additional cost for having a static address because the ISP must reserve your spot and maintain it over time. However, the cost is small relative to the many benefits a static IP brings to the right businesses.  If you are a WOW! Business customer, just contact us to discuss your IP needs and we will be happy to outline your options and get you started. 

How To Improve a Business Website’s Security? 

If you are concerned about the security of your website, you are not alone. Plenty of businesses are worried about protecting their data and their customers’ data. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can increase your website security, including:  

• Get a static IP address: A static address allows you to customize your firewall settings and control access to your network in ways that aren’t possible with a dynamic IP. 

• Keep your software updated: Most software companies regularly update their products to address new security vulnerabilities, but you can only utilize those improvements if you update your product. 

• Use HTTPS: Today’s website users are on the lookout for “HTTPS” in the address bar of their browsers because it means that the website owner is using standard security protocols to protect their data. 

• Back up your site: Regular backups are important because they allow you to recover your information quickly if something goes wrong, which minimizes downtime. 

Contact WOW! Business Today to Get a Static IP 

Your business might benefit significantly from a static IP. The best way to find out is to contact our team and discuss your needs. Not everyone needs a static address, but for those who need secure business internet, it can be a game-changer to get one. 

Ensure a stable and secure connection today by contacting us about setting up a static business IP.