The issue of Starlink internet static IP is crucial as it fundamentally affects the speed and security of your internet connections. But again, one of the issues we are grappling with is an IPv4 shortage challenge.
It is set to increase as newer ISPs come into play. Hence, getting a static IP in the current conditions takes work, and among the main concerns for many Starlink subscribers is whether the company guarantees it.
We’ll explore that in detail while explaining what a static IP is and why it matters to have one. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Static IP Address?
- Uses of a Static IP Address
- Does Starlink Offer Static IP?
- What IP Addresses Does Starlink Provide?
- Which Alternatives Exist?
- Conclusion
What Is a Static IP Address?
It is an address that remains the same irrespective of where you access the internet or the device you use for the service.
Also, the internet protocol address is unaffected by common IP alteration measures such as switching the access device on and off.
On the flip side, Dynamic IP is subject to changes when you access the internet from different devices.
Also, connecting and disconnecting your device prompts a change in the dynamic IP addresses.
While the dynamic IP address is the most common type, it has downsides that only static IP address can fix, as we’ll evaluate below.
Uses of a Static IP Address
Searching for an IP address.
Here are some top advantages of a static IP address and why it is better than a dynamic one.
Allow Remote Access
An IP Address Icon.
It is common for Internet Service Providers to assign users with static IP addresses for the primary reason of facilitating remote access to the company’s networks.
For instance, take a firm that has employees working from home.
When they log onto the company’s website from different locations, they could expose the website to malicious attacks if it has dynamic IP addresses.
So ISPs will fix this issue by guaranteeing a static address that remains unadulterated irrespective of those who use the site.
This provision is handy in enabling remote internet access from any location.
Limiting Network Access
Using a static IP address makes it possible to install a firewall, typically an allowlist of the IP addresses that can access the network. It is imperative to block off malicious visitors trying to visit an address.
So why is this an impossibility with dynamic IP? The ever-changing nature of dynamic IP addresses makes it virtually impossible to curtail network access by some sites.
Primarily, it would compel you to introduce an allowlist every time the IP address changes, which is impossible.
The IP safe listing provision is also a security measure for companies and businesses.
Primarily, it ensures that the employees can only access the company sites from the designated devices. Otherwise, uncontrolled access would expose businesses to hacking.
Enabling Access without DNS
DNS Concept.
Another perk of Static IP is that you can still connect to a server without a dynamic domain name service (DDNS).
DHCP lease expiration challenges will lock dynamic IP addresses users from service access but with a static IP, which is not an issue.
Also, there is usually a DNS distortion in case of a router resetting, which may challenge internet service access.
Static IP also solves this challenge. In addition, it makes access straightforward and easier to safeguard a company’s connection even when users use a VPN.
Accessing Cloud Resources
Cloud computing technology.
The effective protective measures of cloud service providers such as Amazon Web Services are only limited to safeguarding what’s on the company’s servers.
Above that, you must instill measures to protect your data from malicious attacks, especially during transmission.
Hence, it is essential to have a static address that facilitates security in data transmission, as it happens only via your safe listed IP addresses.
Data transfer is also fast with this setting, as the traffic is only via limited addresses.
Does Starlink Offer Static IP?
Numerous Starlink satellites are in space.
It is possible to have a Static IP address, but you must subscribe to the Starlink business package.
Otherwise, Starlink RV and Residential users will have to do with the shared IP option, which has some limitations, as highlighted above.
For instance, it’s impossible to directly port forward with the dynamic IP option, so you can not share your address with other users. But there are ways to overcome this challenge.
What IP Addresses Does Starlink Provide?
IP Address Concept.
Starlink has two primary IP addresses options:
- Carrier Grade Network Address Translation (CGNAT)
- Public IP policy
Carrier Grade Network Address Translation (CGNAT)
This method involves pooling multiple IPv4 addresses with the company assigning you a dynamic IP every time you access the internet. So why does Starlink use this method?
Primarily, the method ensures that no one has a permanent IP address which frees up addresses for use by other users.
The pooling is because there’s a worldwide shortage of IPv4 addresses, so it would prove impossible for every user to have their own.
Hence, Starlink has a system whereby the Roam, Residential, and Best Effort package users share IP addresses.
Public IP Policy
It’s an IP that users not on the Starlink internet service can still access, and it comes with the core advantage of enabling port forwarding.
With the CGNAT option, this action is impossible while blocking you from setting up a VPN host connection.
With Starlink, this service is limited just to Starlink Maritime and Starlink business customers.
Which Alternatives Exist?
Say you’re on Starlink Residential service and want a Static IP address. What options do you have?
Wait for the IPv6 rollout.
IPv6
Starlink is among the ISPs that will significantly benefit from the future expected rollout of IPv6.
Thus, when it becomes active, it’ll be possible for the company to provide individual users with unique static IPs.
The advantage of IPv6 is that there’s a larger repository of the addresses; thus, unlike IPv4, they are unlikely to deplete.
Hence, one of your main options is waiting for the ISP to migrate their residential users to this option.
Use VPN Service
VPN Technology.
The alternative is to activate the static IP gateway option available with most VPN service providers.
This option allows you to create a Static IP which never changes even when you use a different service provider as long as the VPN is on.
Moreover, you can have a remote address service when it’s necessary. The setup process is also pretty straightforward.
Simply choose a reputable VPN service company, then set it up with a Public IP address. And that’s all, and you can begin accessing the internet.
Conclusion
Static IPs matter, and even though most ISPs, such as Starlink, don’t guarantee them, they come in handy in many ways.
Their fundamental role is to guarantee online security, especially for businesses and companies operating online.
Unfortunately, Starlink lacks a static IP provision for those on the Residential package despite it being the most subscribed service.
It limits what subscribers can do with the internet, but if you need a static IP, there’s a way out. We’ve covered it all in this guide.