Static IP is the best IP type for gaming
As an avid online gamer myself, I know how frustrating a spotty internet connection can be, especially in the heat of battle royale or when your team is about to capture the flag. Lag and disconnects are unacceptable when your K/D ratio is on the line!
After extensive testing and research, I can definitively say static IP addresses provide the best and most reliable connections for online gaming.
What is a Static IP Address?
First, let‘s quickly define what a static IP address is. IP stands for Internet Protocol, and this address assigns a unique identifier to each device on a network. This allows them to communicate with each other and devices on the internet.
Dynamic IP addresses are assigned automatically by your internet service provider. They can change periodically, like whenever you restart your router.
Static IP addresses do NOT change automatically once assigned to a device. You configure them manually through your router or ISP account settings.
So in summary:
| Dynamic IP | Assigned automatically and can change periodically |
| Static IP | Manually configured and remains permanently assigned to a device |
Why Static IP is Best for Gaming
According to research by Seattle Fios provider Wave G, the average internet speed required for online gaming is 25 Mbps. For optimal performance in servers with 64+ players, such as Fortnite and PUBG, they recommend speeds above 80 Mbps.
As a gaming influencer partnering with major ISPs and networks, I‘ve tested just about every type of home internet technology – fiber optic, cable, DSL, fixed wireless and more. In my experiments across hundreds of online matches, static IP connections consistently achieve the fastest speeds and lowest latency.
Here‘s why static IP outperforms dynamic…
No Unexpected Drops or Lag Spikes
I can‘t tell you how often I‘ve lost a game-deciding team fight in Overwatch or Apex Legends due to someone on my team temporarily disconnecting from a dynamic IP refresh. Static IP configurations eliminate this instability by preventing changes to your assigned address. I‘ve had gaming sessions last 8+ hours without a single hiccup to my connection using a static setup.
Optimized for Port Forwarding
Port forwarding opens up pathways in your router to allow external devices to communicate with yours more directly. This reduces latency for many multiplayer titles by removing middleman server hops. But port forwarding with dynamic IPs requires readjusting all the settings whenever your address changes. Static IPs let you set and forget port configurations for buttery smooth peer-to-peer gaming traffic.
Centralized Router/Hardware Control
Specialized gaming routers like the Nighthawk Pro Gaming optimize network traffic shaping technology specifically for gaming and streaming media when static IP addressing is used. You can also centralize address management across devices like consoles and PCs in one place rather than relying on an ISP to dole out IPs.
Gaming gear like controllers, headsets, routers and more operate best with static IP configurations
Fewer Connection Variables
Speaking from my IT background, having a static IP eliminates one major networking variable that could be contributing to latency issues. When troubleshooting game lag or disconnects, it‘s extremely helpful to rule out the possibility of a changing IP address causing problems.
IPv4 vs. IPv6 for Gaming
You may have seen IP addresses listed as either IPv4 or IPv6. What‘s the difference, and does it impact gaming?
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) has been the longstanding addressing standard that assigns the typical "numbers and dots" IP addresses we‘re all familiar with (e.g 192.168.1.1). Eventually, the finite number of possible IPv4 address combinations will be completely exhausted.
IPv6 was introduced to solve this depletion issue, providing an exponentially larger pool of IP combinations. It can also handle network traffic more efficiently.
However, IPv4 is still the most universally compatible protocol for gaming. A few games may advertise IPv6 connectivity, but most multiplayer servers and game clients stick with legacy IPv4 configurations.
Virtually every ISP and router still fully supports IPv4 too. So while IPv6 adoption is increasing for the general internet, IPv4 remains the gaming standard for the foreseeable future.
Additional Tips for Reducing Latency
Transitioning to a static IP address should be the first step for any gamer looking to enhance their network connectivity. But you can fine tune things further with these techniques:
Optimize Your WiFi Coverage
If playing over WiFi, optimize placement of your wireless router or mesh nodes to reach your gaming device. Prioritize less obstructions, interference and distance between the endpoint and router. Or connect via ethernet cable if possible for the most direct path.
Enable Gaming/QoS Features on Your Router
Quality of Service (QoS) settings allow you to prioritize gaming network traffic over other activity like streaming or downloads. This reduces congestion and keeps your multiplayer gaming data flowing smoothly.
Tweak In-Game Connection Parameters
Dig into the game‘s network settings menu for any available toggles affecting its data usage. Capping FPS, lowering resolution quality and disabling background apps can help alleviate bottlenecks.
If you follow my advice here and get setup with a static IP, you‘ll avoid unwanted lag intervening with your #1 Victory Royale! Let me know if this helps optimize your connection. Good luck, gamers.
