Unlike a shared IP, which is used at the same time by multiple users, a Dedicated IP is an Internet Protocol (IP) address assigned only to a single user or account. When a user acquires a dedicated IP on a VPN service, it means that nobody else but that particular user or device will use the specific address, providing the user with unique features like better security, consistent trackability on websites, and lower chances of being added to a black list.
Similar to the services mentioned above, VPNs also offer dedicated IPs – as an extra feature for those who need certain capabilities or advantages (i.e. remote work, secure access to corporate resources or unattended browsing sessions).
Advantages of having a dedicated IP
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Secure remote access: This enables businesses to assign dedicated IPs for employees, allowing secure access to corporate networks and sensitive resources.
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Improved reliability: Self-hosted services such as video conferencing or online gaming require access to the same IP address for consistent performance.
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Enhanced online reputation: A dedicated IP offers a pristine online address, separate from shared IPs that may be flagged for spam or nefarious activity.
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Seamless Streaming: A dedicated IP is less likely to get flagged or blocked by streaming services, allowing seamless access to geo-blocked content.
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Example of whitelist for secure apps: They are ideal for services requiring greater security, like financial services or cloud storage, which may require whitelisted IPs.
Drawbacks of a dedicated IP
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Reduced anonymity: Shared IPs allow greater user anonymity because the same IP address is used by multiple users — but using a dedicated IP makes your online activity easier to trace to a specific IP address.
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Additional cost: Dedicated IPs are often considered a premium feature, with many VPN providers offering them for an additional cost.
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Limited Location Options: Dedicated IP options are only available in select regions, which might limit location flexibility.
VPN services offering dedicated IP
- 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 access to the internet from the same address for particular activities, a Dedicated IP is a perfect solution. Shared IPs are enough for general browsing and casual use, but a dedicated IP has many unique advantages for remote work, streaming, secure transactions, and privacy-conscious users.
