Internet Service Providers (ISPs) typically provide Internet service to customers using either a dynamic IP address or a static IP address. A dynamic, or DHCP (dynamic host configuration protocol), network uses a “stack” of available IP addresses for each customer. When the customer’s modem comes online, it obtains the first available IP address off of the stack and uses that address to browse the Internet. Thus, a modem may use a slightly different IP every time it goes online. A static IP address is just the opposite—one specific IP address is assigned to each customer and the modem always uses that exact IP address to go online. If you determine that you need to use a static IP address on your Internet connection, here are a few things to consider before contacting your ISP to order a static IP. For Apple computers, navigate to the “Network” System Preferences icon (System Preferences—>Network). Select your active connection (typically labeled “Built-in ethernet”) and click either “configure” or “advanced,” depending on what version of Mac OSX you are using. Listed next to “Ethernet ID” is the computer’s MAC address (you may have to additionally click on the ‘Ethernet’ tab in older versions of OSX). Once you have determined the MAC address of the device that is going to use the static IP, it is time to contact your ISP. Warnings Writer Bio
