Dedicated IP

Unlike a shared IP, which is used simultaneously by multiple users, a Dedicated IP is an Internet Protocol (IP) address assigned exclusively to a single user or account. When a user obtains a dedicated IP through a VPN service, it means that no one else but that particular user or device will use the specific address, providing the user with unique benefits such as better security, consistent trackability on websites, and a reduced risk of being blacklisted.

Similar to the services mentioned above, VPNs also offer dedicated IPs – as an extra feature for those who need specific capabilities or advantages (i.e. remote work, secure access to corporate resources, or private browsing sessions).

Advantages of having a dedicated IP

1. Secure remote access: This allows businesses to assign dedicated IPs to employees, enabling secure access to corporate networks and sensitive resources.

2. Improved reliability: Self-hosted services such as video conferencing or online gaming need access to the same IP address for consistent performance.

3. Enhanced online reputation: A dedicated IP provides a clean online address, separate from shared IPs that might be marked for spam or malicious activity.

4. Seamless Streaming: A dedicated IP is less likely to be flagged or blocked by streaming services, allowing seamless access to geo-blocked content.

5. Example of whitelist for secure apps: They are ideal for services demanding higher security, like financial services or cloud storage, which might require whitelisted IPs.

Drawbacks of a dedicated IP

1. Reduced anonymity: Shared IPs provide greater user anonymity because the same IP address is used by multiple users — however, using a dedicated IP makes your online activities easier to trace to a specific IP address.

2. Additional cost: Dedicated IPs are often considered a premium feature, with many VPN providers offering them at an extra cost.

3. Limited Location Options: Dedicated IP options are available only in selected regions, which might limit location flexibility.

VPN services offering dedicated IPs

• Surfshark VPN (Surfshark VPN's biggest draw is that you can connect an unlimited number of devices to a single subscription, which is not the case with most other VPN providers.).

• NordVPN (Strong privacy protection with military-grade encryption. It offers a large server network, allowing for fast and reliable connections, and is superb at unblocking streaming services. It has a few unique features such as strong security, fast speeds, and global coverage.).

• PureVPN (PureVPN is a fairly successful VPN service at low prices).

For those who need secure and stable internet access from the same address for specific activities, a Dedicated IP is a perfect solution. Shared IPs are sufficient for general browsing and casual use, but a dedicated IP offers many unique advantages for remote work, streaming, secure transactions, and privacy-conscious users.