What does "static IP" refer to?

"Static IP" refers to an IP address that is manually assigned and remains constant over time. Unlike dynamic IP addresses, which can change every time a device connects to the network or at regular intervals, a static IP address is fixed. This is particularly useful for devices that need a permanent address, such as servers, printers, or network equipment, because it provides a reliable way to connect to those devices without the concern of the address changing.

The manual assignment of a static IP address ensures that the same address is used for the device every time it is accessed on the network, which simplifies administration and connectivity for users and applications that rely on that address. This reliability is crucial in many networking scenarios where consistent access to a device is necessary.