Hi folks

I have just discovered that my ISP, PlusNet, gives me the option of having a Static IP address at no extra cost, I can also change this option at will from Dynamic to Static

What advantages are there in having a fixed IP, how could I utilize this my end? ie setting up a webserver?

I connect via a Netgear DG834G router if that makes any difference.

Im all ears to hear of scenarios where a Static IP would be used where a Dynamic would not be suitable.

Sim
everyday you learn more

A fixed IP address is beneficial where you want others to be able to access your computer via its IP address or a domain name that relates specifically to that IP address. The most likely use for this is to host your own website or 'ftp' server.

Hi Mike

the Static IP would be assigned to the routerand not an individual PC how does that affect things if I want to set up a ftp server using one of my other PCs, there are 3 PCs on my network for most of the time

You would give the PCs in your network fixed IP addresses then set up Port Forwarding in your router to forward the port used to access the FTP server (normally port 21) to the IP address of the PC running the FTP server.

When your public "Static IP address" is accessed on Port 21, the router will forward traffic on that port directly to the LAN IP address of the FTP server.

There is a good site with instructions for setting up Port Forwarding on a variety of routers at http://portforward.com/routers.htm

Cheers Mike, that has given me something think about and work on, thanks