What is a static IP address?

A static IP address is a fixed IP assigned to a device that doesn’t change each time it connects to the network, making it ideal for servers and smart devices.

What’s the difference between static and dynamic IPs?

Dynamic IPs are assigned temporarily by DHCP and can change. Static IPs remain constant, providing stable connections for servers, NAS systems, and gaming consoles.

How do I assign a static IP address on my router?

Log into your router, open DHCP or LAN settings, and set a fixed IP for a device by MAC address under 'Address Reservation' or 'Static Lease'.

Should I use DHCP reservation or static IP?

Use DHCP reservation if you prefer managing IPs from your router. Use static IP if you want to configure the address directly on your device.

Setting Up Static IP Addresses for a Stable Network

A static IP address can eliminate connection issues, prevent devices from vanishing off your network, and make managing smart devices and servers much easier. In this guide, we’ll explain what static IPs are, why you need them, and how to set them up properly.

How to Set Up a Static IP Address on Your Router

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Understanding Static vs Dynamic IPs

Most routers automatically assign IP addresses using DHCP, which dynamically hands out temporary IPs. A static IP, however, is a fixed address that never changes. This ensures stable connections for:

Media servers like Plex or Jellyfin
Network-attached storage (NAS) systems
Gaming consoles for port forwarding
Security cameras and home automation hubs

How DHCP Leases Work

Your router manages a “pool” of IPs, typically ranging from 192.168.1.2 to 192.168.1.253. Each device receives a temporary IP lease (often 24 hours). If that lease expires or the device disconnects for too long, the router may reassign that IP to another device, causing connection disruptions.

When to Use Static IP Addresses

Static IPs are best for any device that hosts data or requires constant access. For example:

Home servers – Keep them accessible at the same address.
Gaming consoles – Avoid port forwarding conflicts.
Smart cameras – Ensure consistent monitoring access.

Setting Up Static IP Addresses

Log into your router. Open a browser and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, then enter your admin credentials.
Locate the DHCP settings. This is typically found under LAN Settings or Advanced ? DHCP Server.
Adjust the DHCP pool range. For example, change the start address to 192.168.1.10 so IPs below that can be used for static devices.
Assign static IPs manually. Pick an unused IP, such as 192.168.1.4, and set it directly on your device.
Or use DHCP Reservation. In your router, go to Address Reservation, match your device’s MAC address, and assign a fixed IP inside the pool range.

When done correctly, your devices will always retain the same IP address, reducing disconnects and improving network predictability.

Example Static IP Configuration

Device	Static IP	Purpose
Plex Media Server	192.168.1.4	Stream content to other devices
NAS (Synology)	192.168.1.5	Store backups and files
PS5 Console	192.168.1.11	Enable reliable port forwarding

Final Thoughts

By assigning static IP addresses, you gain control over your home network’s reliability. Devices remain connected, port forwarding works seamlessly, and troubleshooting becomes easier. Once you experience a properly configured network, you’ll never go back to random DHCP assignments.

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Do you ever get tired of your devices randomly changing IP addresses? One day your media server streams perfectly, and the next day it disappears from your network. That’s your router playing musical chairs with your IPs. In this tutorial, we’ll fix that for good by learning how to use static IP addresses.

A static IP address is a fixed number assigned to a device that doesn’t change each time it connects. Most routers use DHCP, or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, to hand out temporary addresses. When your device disconnects, the router may reuse that address for something else, which can cause problems for servers and connected devices.

To avoid this, you can assign static IPs. For example, set your router’s DHCP range from 192.168.1.10 to 192.168.1.253. Then, manually assign IPs like 192.168.1.2 through 192.168.1.9 for devices that need to stay fixed—like a Plex server or gaming console.

You can configure static IPs in two ways: on the device itself or through your router’s DHCP reservation feature. The latter binds your device’s MAC address to a permanent IP, ensuring it always gets the same address automatically.

Once configured, your devices stay connected and your network becomes faster, more reliable, and easier to manage.