Dedicated IP vs Shared IP: Main Differences

Firstly, it is important to mark down that the IP address functions as a specific identification number for a device within the framework of a network. The main responsibility is to enable communication among users, servers, and websites, allowing for data transfer and interaction over the Internet. Users can opt for dedicated IP vs shared IP based on the configuration of their network. This selection determines, directly, the level of security, speed of operations, and range of online services accessible from various locations around the world. The particular aspects of every option will be provided in this article.

What is a Shared IP?

Shared address is used by several users or services collectively. Such an approach significantly helps IP hosting companies along with VPN service providers and other organizations allocate a finite number of addresses to a large number of clients.

The primary value attached to this type of IP address is related to the lower costs associated with it, which can easily be shared among all users. On the contrary, shared use breeds some disadvantages and risks like compromising the reputation of the address and the associated consequences, lower bandwidth, and unfortunately, lower quality service.

Also, remember that internet service providers usually assign customers a shared IP as a default because it makes network management easier. Nevertheless, there are particular scenarios when a dedicated one, for example, enhanced security and steady access to certain resources, would be more beneficial. But, is dedicated ip worth it?

What is a Dedicated IP?

A private or dedicated address is one that has been allocated to a single user or device. As a result, the address is not shared with other clients and does not change during the course of access. These are applicable in business, cybersecurity, and for services necessitating the most stable connection possible. There are several specific benefits, why is a dedicated IP address important:

• Since the address is used by one single owner, there is full control over the reputation, which minimizes the chances of being blacklisted due to actions of third parties;
• Setting access to systems or databases only from a specific address greatly enhances security by reducing unauthorized access;
• Assigning an individual SSL certificate to an user improves the protection of the user’s data and increases the level of trust from the user’s websites;
• Dedicated one guarantees a stable connection because the chances of access issues to corporate networks or remote desktops or online banking are greatly minimized;
• There are no restrictions to use web services because dedicated addresses are less likely to be blocked by website security systems and platforms.

Those users who would like to choose a dedicated IP vs shared IP must first review each solution thoroughly. This article will explain the points of difference between dedicated IP and shared IP.

Difference Between Two Types

Understanding the nuances of the work being done will ultimately determine which solution is more appropriate. Below is a comparative table “Dedicated IP vs Shared IP” briefly presenting the differences that exist between the two types.

Indeed, these options have their own features, pros, and cons, which should be considered when making a decision. Let’s look at the aforementioned parameters of difference more thoroughly.

Performance and Speed

When an individual is working within a shared address context, performance will tend to be poorer since many users are leveraging the same resources. Under these conditions, servers become overloaded, connections become unstable, and there are poor data transfer speeds. A dedicated address provides rapid connectivity, particularly during peak demands which has a positive impact on website and application performance.

IP Reputation and Blacklisting

Shared IP vs dedicated IP both come with certain advantages and consequences. For instance, the reputation of an address is critical when it comes to accessing services online. A shared one has the likelihood of being blacklisted, which may be the result of one user of the IP violating terms of service by sending spam or engaging in a fraudulent scheme. This could result in complications when trying to access a multitude of sites and platforms. However, a dedicated one does not suffer from such risks since it is only impacted by the actions of a single user.

Use Cases: When to Use Dedicated IP or Shared IP

In instances that do not require high security measures such as web browsing or surfing, shared IPs are considerably useful. However, in situations whereby a higher degree of security is necessary, a dedicated one is more suitable. These types of accounts can be found in the following scenarios.

• setting up SSL certificates;
• conducting online business;
• working with servers;
• using corporate VPNs.

Users must identify the level of security and control associated with their online projects, websites, and applications in question to determine whether a dedicated IP vs shared IP is more suitable.

Is My IP Shared or Dedicated?

Understanding the type of address in use can provide insights into the connection’s features as well as possible restrictions. There are different methods available for determining whether an IP address is dedicated or shared. Here are two examples and a comprehensive view at the end.

1. One option is to check your IP using website tools that can provide useful information about the specific address including its type. The customer needs only to input the offered address and the website will provide all the relevant data about it.
2. One additional option can be performed at a command line or a terminal. Regardless of the operating system being used, there are available commands that allow the user to get information. As an example, we can look at the commands used in the terminal.
   • In Windows:

     
     nslookup myip.opendns.com resolver1.opendns.com
     
     

   • In macOS/Linux:

     
     curl ifconfig.me
     dig +short myip.opendns.com @resolver1.opendns.com
     
     

   If the address is dynamic and changes when the network is restarted, it is most likely shared.

3. For VPN or hosting service clients, information about the type of address is usually accessible within the account settings or personal account. Providers usually indicate what type is provided as part of the service.
4. One possibility that can be explored is to contact the internet provider support. Clarifying whether a dedicated address is provided by default or there is an option to order and pay for as necessary.

The analysis presented addresses how the data can help identify the type of address. Clearly, some techniques may be only accurate to a degree and employing several techniques at once would yield better results.

How to Choose the Right IP for Your Needs

To determine whether one option is more ideal than the other, a dedicated IP vs shared IP could be selected based on the use case scenarios that were previously discussed. Use cases are not enough. Other considerations include but are not limited to:

• Budget: a shared one is generally more affordable but a dedicated one comes at a premium since it a value-added service from the Internet Service Provider;
• Security level: for better control, a dedicated is sceptically superior;
• Necessity for varying degrees of reliability: this is more suitable for a private address.
• Whether or not a proxy server will be used: with a shared one, the user’s IP will fluctuate so the user must opt for proxies that utilize user ID and password authentication. With a dedicated IP, users can set it as the login authentication for the proxy and thereby increase the ease in which one can control the proxy server for instance in managing web scraping programs.

A shared address is more suitable for average users and small projects that are on a tight budget. A dedicated one is better for businesses and high-traffic websites. By analyzing thoroughly all the aspects, everybody can find the best choice dedicated vs shared IP.

Dedicated IP vs Shared IP: Conclusion

It can be noted that both a dedicated and a shared are allocated depending on whether the IP address is linked to a single device or multiple devices. For normal requirements of an average user in normal circumstances, a typical shared one will be enough. A dedicated, on the other hand, is not given by default, but rather has to be specifically requested from the internet provider.