What is an IP address?
An IP address is a string of numbers that names a computer on the internet. It looks like 203.0.113.10. It is like the house number of a server. Domain names exist so people do not need to remember these numbers.
Shared and dedicated IP
On shared hosting, many websites often use one IP address. This is a shared IP. It works well for most sites.
A dedicated IP belongs to your account only. No other website uses it.
Reasons to get a dedicated IP
- Cleaner email reputation: if other sites on a shared IP send spam, your emails may suffer. With your own IP, only your habits count.
- Access by IP: you can open your site by typing the number, even before the domain is ready.
- SSL certificates: an SSL certificate makes your site use the padlock and HTTPS. Modern servers can handle many certificates on one shared IP. Some older setups still need a dedicated IP.
- Allow lists: some services only let in known IP numbers. A fixed IP makes this easy.
- Custom FTP or remote tools: a stable address is simpler to share with partners.
Do you need one?
Most small sites do not. A shared IP is fine for blogs, small business pages and portfolios. A dedicated IP helps if you send lots of email, run an online shop, or need a fixed address.
Steps to ask for one
- Log in to your client area.
- Check your hosting service page to see if an IP option is shown.
- If not, open a support ticket.
- Ask if a dedicated IP is available for your plan, and what it costs.
- Follow the answer from support.
Tip: A dedicated IP does not make your site faster. It does not boost search ranking by itself.
Quick recap
- An IP address is the number address of a server.
- A dedicated IP is used only by you.
- It helps with email reputation and fixed access.
- Most small sites do fine on a shared IP.