Should I Get a Dedicated IP For My VPN

With the growing popularity of OTT apps and services, the demand for VPNs is rising. VPNs enable users to bypass restrictions imposed by service providers, making it easier to browse the internet or stream entertainment content seamlessly. Additionally, VPNs grant access to content unavailable for streaming in your location, enhancing your online experience.

If you have ever looked for good quality VPNs, you would have come across two terms. These terms are shared IP and Dedicated IP. Before diving into the specifics of dedicated IPs, it’s essential to understand what an IP address is

What is an IP address

IP stands for Internet Protocol, which is a set of rules that governs how data is transmitted over the Internet. These rules enable seamless communication between devices by ensuring they follow a typical system.

Every device connected to a network is assigned a numeric label that enables communication between devices. IP is an address assigned to every domain on the World Wide Web. IP addresses are mapped to domain names using a DNS service. DNS is similar to a phone book for the World Wide Web.

This label allows devices to be identified on the network. Your ISP assigns the IP address and uses it to trace your online identity. It's here when a VPN (virtual private network) comes into play to protect your online security and privacy.

In the comfort of your home, your device usually gets its IP address from your internet service provider (ISP). However, when you connect to the internet through a VPN, the process takes a different turn.

The VPN essentially conceals the IP address assigned by your ISP and substitutes it with one of its own. This VPN IP becomes the face you present to the online world. Subsequently, the VPN server functions as a mediator, automatically forwarding any data intended for you to your home IP.

The specific IP the VPN allocates to your device depends on several factors. The location and instance of the VPN server you link to are considered. Whether your VPN provider opts for shared or dedicated IPs is another factor.

Understanding Shared vs. Dedicated IPs

Shared IPs

When using a shared IP, you connect to a server with multiple users, all sharing the same IP address. This creates a "cloud" of activity, making it difficult to track individual users. While this anonymity is beneficial, it has drawbacks. Since shared IPs can be used by malicious actors, websites often restrict access to prevent abuse. This can lead to CAPTCHA challenges, limited access, or complete blockages.

Downsides of Shared VPN IPs

Sharing Resources with Other Users

Sharing an IP address with numerous users has drawbacks. The speed and performance of shared IP is the most common issue users face.

When multiple users share an IP, they also share various server resources, including network bandwidth, memory, and CPUs. If even one user downloads substantial data, it can adversely affect the overall server performance. In simpler terms, everyone connected to the same shared IP bears the consequences of others' actions.

To address this concern, VPN services frequently operate multiple servers in a single location. They use a technique known as load balancing. This ensures that when one server is overloaded, new users connect to a less burdened server.

Punishment for Other People’s Bad Behavior

Another drawback of dynamic IP VPNs is that the activities of others sharing the same address might influence your internet experience.

For instance, if numerous users on one IP access Google simultaneously, Google may interpret it as spam. The likely result is that you'll have to complete a reCAPTCHA query before proceeding, which can become a source of annoyance.

Websites also can blacklist an IP due to inappropriate behavior. If someone from a shared VPN IP has spammed on a site, the site may deny its access to that IP address. In such cases, reconnecting to the VPN to obtain a different IP address is the solution, although these instances are rare.

Despite the occasional need to fill in a reCAPTCHA query or reconnect to the VPN, these inconveniences are minor when weighed against the improved anonymity they provide online.

Dedicated IPs

A dedicated IP is assigned to a single user or group. They provide a unique and unchanging online identity. This offers several advantages:

• Enhanced security: Since only you use the IP, there's no risk of malicious activity impacting your online experience. No user other than you can use the IP address assigned to you. Therefore, you get the complete benefit of the security measures offered by your VPN or any software you use on your own.
• Improved website access: Websites are less likely to flag or restrict dedicated IPs, allowing for smoother browsing and access. They perceive dedicated IPs are assigned to genuine users who look for authentic content on the internet. VPN service providers check multiple parameters before assigning a dedicated IP to any user. This enables you to access almost any legitimate website without the risk of being banned or blocked.
• Greater control: You have complete control over your online reputation and activity, as your online actions are associated only with your dedicated IP. You cannot be blocked or penalized for others' actions, and nobody can use your IP address. So, you have complete control over what you do online, and there is no risk of other users' activities.

Knowing the benefits of dedicated IP, most users will choose it over shared IP. But, users must also choose the right VPN that offers uninterrupted services with robust online security and privacy. However, with numerous service providers, it becomes challenging for potential users to choose the right VPN, as every VPN offers special features for specific user needs.

We have tested hundreds of VPNs to make it easy for you to choose the best VPN that suits your requirements and offers you enhanced privacy, whether you stream content at home or use it for your business. You can choose any VPN that seems a perfect fit for your budget and requirements. Moreover, a dedicated IP will offer you more control over your online activities.

Who Needs a Dedicated IP?

Dedicated IPs are particularly recommended for individuals, professionals, and businesses.

Businesses

Protecting business communications and online activities requires a secure and reliable connection. Dedicated IPs offer this security and control, safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring smooth business operations.

Home users

Privacy-conscious individuals who value security and control over their online presence will benefit from a dedicated IP. Like businesses, individuals also need online security to protect their personal and confidential information.

Professionals

Individuals who rely on online platforms for work, such as freelancers, remote workers, and online entrepreneurs, can enjoy greater reliability and access with a dedicated IP.

Investing in a Dedicated IP

While most VPNs offer shared IPs as part of their standard plans, dedicated IPs often require an additional fee. However, the enhanced security, control, and improved online experience often justify the cost.

Making the Choice

Whether a dedicated IP is right for you depends on your individual needs and online habits. If you prioritize anonymity and convenience, a shared IP might be sufficient. However, if you value security, control, and unrestricted website access, a dedicated IP is the best.

Advantages of Using a Dedicated VPN IP Address

In the online world, having a VPN with a dedicated IP address can be a security measure. Dedicated VPN offers numerous benefits that enhance your online experience. Let's delve into the advantages, making it clear why investing in a dedicated IP is the right choice.

1. Safe Online Access: A dedicated IP provides a stable and permanent connection, offering enhanced security for your online activities. By selecting a VPN server in your desired location, you become a recognized user of that country. This allows you to engage in secure tasks like online banking and shopping. Unlike shared IPs, dedicated IPs diminish the risk of being blocked by websites or encountering security issues.
2. High-Level Server Control: Opting for a business VPN service grants you a dedicated IP, providing direct access to the VPN server. This translates to more freedom and customization options based on your technical proficiency. With a dedicated IP, you can even run your IP-based server environment, offering advanced control for your websites or projects.
3. Secure Remote Access: Dedicated IPs offers secure remote access to business networks. Authorized IP addresses ensure that employees can connect safely from any location. It enables employees to access information and resources without compromising network integrity.
4. Access Geo-Restricted Services: Shared IP addresses bring the risk of being associated with illicit activities of others. Dedicated IPs, however, offer legitimacy, preventing bans and blacklisting. This ensures uninterrupted access to online content, as VPN providers assign fresh IPs, eliminating concerns about sharing implications.
5. Smooth Website Logins: Constantly changing IP addresses can complicate website logins, with some platforms blocking access until identity verification. A dedicated VPN IP address provides consistency, streamlining the login process for websites like Gmail and PayPal.
6. Better Streaming Experience: Dedicated IPs enhance the streaming experience, particularly for video-on-demand services like Netflix and Hulu. With shared IPs easily identified and blacklisted, dedicated IPs ensure seamless access and faster streaming, free from interruptions caused by sharing with others.
7. Secure Banking Transactions: For the utmost security in online banking, a dedicated VPN IP address is invaluable. Your private information remains inaccessible to cybercriminals, offering peace of mind and safeguarding your financial transactions.
8. Less Downtime During Gaming: Dynamic IPs pose a risk of downtime during gaming, impacting scores and overall experience. A dedicated VPN IP provides a static address, minimizing downtime and ensuring a more stable gaming experience.
9. IP Whitelisting: Amidst the trend of remote working and BYOD, whitelisting dedicated VPN IPs enhances network security. By allowing only whitelisted IPs, firewalls can be configured to permit users to match specified addresses, securing private servers and remote access systems.

Choosing a Dedicated IP VPN: Is It Right for You?

Considering a dedicated IP VPN? Let's break it down in simple terms to help you decide if it's a worthwhile addition to your online experience.

1. Everyday Browsing: (Probably Not Needed) If your regular VPN usage grants you access to the websites you frequent without issues, splurging on a dedicated IP might not be the best move. For typical internet use, the extra cost may not be justified.
2. Special Needs: (When a Dedicated IP Makes Sense) If you encounter hurdles accessing your smart home gadgets, your work network, or anything requiring IP whitelisting, a dedicated IP becomes more appealing. It's your ticket to a smoother experience, reducing the hassle of constant captchas and security tests.
3. The Irritation Factor: (A Key Consideration) Are captchas and security hassles becoming a regular part of your online routine? Are certain websites blocking your access? If yes, opting for a dedicated IP could be the remedy to make your web life less annoying.
4. Try Before You Commit: Feeling uncertain? No problem. Many VPN services offer flat-rate monthly billing for dedicated IPs, which can be expensive. The good news? No long-term commitments. Take the plunge, add a dedicated IP for a month, and observe its impact on your online challenges. If it solves the issues, fantastic! If not, cancel the dedicated IP and explore other options hassle-free.