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In our continuing protocol tutorial series, we now turn our focus from SNMP to a broader yet critical element of network management - IP addressing.
Understanding the nuances of static versus dynamic IP address choices is key for optimal network performance. Static assignment of IP addresses is typically used to eliminate the network traffic associated with DHCP/DNS and to lock an element in the address space to provide a consistent IP target. This setup clearly defines the distinction in static versus dynamic IP address configurations, focusing on fixed allocation benefits.
An IP address is a unique number that points to an element identity on a local network. Depending on whether the address is static or dynamic, the implications for accessibility and reliability vary significantly.
Your cell phone has a unique number assigned to it so it can receive and send calls. Similarly, network elements have an identifying number called an Internet Protocol Address. In fact, that Smart Phone you use to surf the web has one assigned to it too. However, you'll most likely never see it unless you look for it.
The basic rule is simple: every network device is assigned a unique IP address. Choosing between static versus dynamic IP address options determines how consistently devices can communicate. There are two types of IP addresses, static or dynamic. The difference between static and dynamic IP address assignment is that dynamic IP addresses are on an as-needed basis, while static IP addresses usually are on a permanent basis.
Let's look at the difference between static and dynamic addresses, and why it matters. This comparison will shed light on the practical applications of static versus dynamic IP address usage.
Let's start with a simple static IP tutorial. Static IP addresses are just that: Static, and they rarely change. This stable configuration is a major factor in the debate of static versus dynamic IP address setups.
Just like your name, once a static IP address is assigned a network element, it remains there until a decision is made to change it.
At this time, the basic IP address structure is a 12 number address configured in this pattern: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx. So, for example, a network element might have a static IP address like 209.134.004.168. Referencing that address on the network would always point to that network element, just like your phone number always refers to your phone.
The benefit of static IP address vs dynamic is the speed at which it can be referenced. For the context of static versus dynamic IP address assignments, this fixed nature maintains uninterrupted connectivity for devices requiring consistent access. Since the number never changes, and always refers to the same network element, it can be immediately accessed with no overhead processing.
A static IP address doesn't change, serving as a permanent identifier within a network. This is akin to having a fixed home address, ensuring that whenever you connect to the network, the same IP address is assigned to your device.
Better DNS Support: Static IPs are essential for hosting websites and services that require reliable DNS settings.
VPN Compatibility: They enhance VPN performance by ensuring stable connections.
VoIP Protocols: Ideal for activities requiring VoIP, like video conferencing, due to their consistent connection.
Geolocation Services: More reliable for location-based services, making features like location tracking more accurate.
Hackability: These addresses are more susceptible to hacking because they are easier to locate and predict.
Cost: Generally, static IPs are more expensive to maintain than dynamic ones.
User Locatability: Static IPs can make users easier to track, potentially compromising privacy.
By understanding these facets, you can better assess whether a static IP address suits your networking needs.
The benefit of static IP address vs dynamic is the speed at which it can be referenced. For the context of static versus dynamic IP address assignments, this fixed nature maintains uninterrupted connectivity for devices requiring consistent access. Since the number never changes, and always refers to the same network element, it can be immediately accessed with no overhead processing.
Now, let's consider the dynamic IP address configuration. The opposite of static IP assignments is the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). The flexibility of dynamic addresses often sparks discussions about static versus dynamic IP address applications.
A dynamic IP address is one that changes either at certain intervals or when you disconnect and reconnect to a network. For example, if your IP address within your home Wi-Fi network is currently 1.1.1.1, it might change to 1.1.1.2 after 36 hours of being connected or when you disconnect and reconnect. This automatic assignment is managed by a DHCP server, which efficiently distributes IP addresses to devices as they come online. Not all of the IP addresses will be allocated at one time, allowing providers to manage large user bases efficiently.
A DHCP server allows a dynamic assignment of IP addresses in a system to those network elements that require them at a given time. Comparing the static versus dynamic IP address handling here, DHCP offers scalability at the cost of persistence.
Privacy Shield: They make it harder for anyone to follow you around online.
Ease of Use: There's no need to enter an IP address manually.
Cost Efficiency: They're more affordable than static IP addresses.
Limited Automation: Websites won't necessarily be able to fill in your information automatically.
Compatibility Issues: They don't work well with DNS web servers.
Geolocation Accuracy: Geolocation data may not be accurate.
In order to be functional, a DHCP web server uses a system to track and lookup IP address information that relates to the active network elements.
One of the tools that allow this translation is the Domain Name System or DNS. The dynamic DNS server is like a card catalog in the library: it identifies the proper location of a network element and points network traffic to it when required.
This process of looking up IP addresses and routing traffic to them requires some overhead processing and time. In networks that do not require it, static IP assignments are often used.
Static assignment of an IP eliminates the network traffic associated with DHCP/DNS and locks an IP element into a specific address to provide a consistent IP target. This highlights why static versus dynamic IP address decisions are so important for certain environments.
Telemetry monitoring masters can then be told precisely where the element is located by entering the IP address. You can observe this effect by replacing a typical WWW reference with its direct IP address if you know it. For example, enter "209.240.134.104" in your browser address bar and, with no DNS overhead, you will reach the same web page you would reach by entering www.dpstele.com.
When considering which IP addressing method to use for alarm monitoring, please know that using DHCP isn't the smartest solution.
You'll be wasting your time configuring your RTUs to report alarms to your master (i.e., T/Mon) with a specific IP address, knowing that it'll change.
The DHCP lease for your master's IP address will then expire within a week or so. As a result, your master will be given a new IP address.
While all of this is happening, your RTUs will still be sending alarms to the specific IP address from your initial configuration. Because your master now has a new IP address, it will fail to receive the alarms. You'll then have to waste more time configuring your RTUs to send alarms to this new IP address, knowing that it'll change again once the DHCP lease expires.
This is equivalent to changing your phone number every week and notifying everybody in your contacts.
Instead, static IP addresses are used in telemetry monitoring.
You'll only have to configure your RTUs once and know that your master station will receive the alarms. Your preferred IP address will never change unless you decide to change it for some reason. Your master will be able to receive the alarms from your RTUs without failing due to a change in IP address as with DHCP. You'll avoid the hassle of configuring your RTUs all over again because your master's IP address won't change. As a result, you'll have full control over your network with your IP locked down and remaining the same. Your static IP will make sure your alarms are received by your designated master.
Static vs. Dynamic IP AddressesStatic IP Addresses: These are critical for businesses, particularly those running DNS servers and VoIP protocols. A static IP provides the reliability and consistency required for seamless communication and operation. In telemetry and alarm monitoring, as discussed, a static IP ensures continuous, uninterrupted service.
Dynamic IP Addresses: These are generally more suitable for individual consumers. They offer flexibility and are often more cost-effective, as there's typically no additional charge for changing IP addresses. This can be advantageous for home users who don't require a permanent IP address for their day-to-day activities.
By understanding the specific needs of your network, whether for personal use or business applications, you can make a more informed decision on whether a static or dynamic IP address is the better choice. Static IPs offer stability and predictability, while dynamic IPs provide flexibility and are budget-friendly for the average consumer.
We've established static IPs as the preferred method for communication. But have you ever wondered how a remote site with no Ethernet can send alarms to a master station? What about sites with T1 or fiber connections, how are their alarms sent to their master station?
First and foremost, you'll need an RTU that can support T1 or fiber connectivity. Fortunately, there are RTUs with T1 or fiber interfaces that can provide LAN to the devices at your remote sites.
