In short: A BT business static IP is a fixed public IP address on your BT business broadband line that never changes. It is used for VPNs, remote access, CCTV, hosting and allow-lists. BT includes one free on Enhanced, offers it as a paid option on other packages with up to five additional addresses, and does not offer static IP on Ultra.
What is a static IP address?
Every internet connection has a public IP address, the number other systems on the internet see. On most broadband the address is dynamic: it can change when the router restarts or the network reassigns it. That is fine for browsing and email.
A static IP stays the same. Anything that needs to find your office, or recognise traffic coming from it, can rely on that one address.
Why businesses need one
- VPNs: site-to-site VPNs between offices, and remote access VPNs for staff, are simpler and more reliable when the office end has a fixed address. See Cisco Secure Client for one remote access option.
- Remote access to servers, NAS devices or desktops in the office
- CCTV and access control systems you view from outside the building
- Allow-listing: banks, payment providers, software vendors and Microsoft 365 conditional access policies can restrict logins to known addresses
- Hosting a web, mail or application server on site
- Some VoIP and phone system set-ups that expect traffic from a known address
Many modern services no longer depend on a fixed address. Cloud firewalls and zero trust network access can replace an office VPN, for example. We will tell you honestly if you do not need one.
Which BT packages include a static IP
| Package | Static IP |
|---|---|
| Essential | Dynamic IP as standard; static IP available as an extra |
| Enhanced | One static IP included free |
| Pro | Available; we confirm what is bundled on your quote |
| Ultra | Not available: BT states static IP is not supported on Broadband Ultra |
| BTnet leased line | A dedicated line for larger or more demanding set-ups: ask us about IP address requirements |
See the full package comparison for everything else each tier includes.
One address or several
BT's terms describe two levels:
- A single static IP: one fixed address for your connection. This covers most needs, such as a VPN endpoint or allow-listing.
- Additional static IPs: up to five more addresses, for an additional charge, so separate devices such as a firewall, a server and a CCTV recorder can each have their own public address.
Additional addresses need configuring in the hub or your own firewall so each one reaches the right device, and we can help with that.
Ordering and moving providers
- Decide what will use the address and whether one or five addresses are needed.
- Order the static IP with your BT Business Broadband, or add it to an existing BT service.
- Note the address BT allocates to your line and keep it with your network records.
- Update VPNs, allow-lists and DNS records with the new address before you switch over.
One catch: you cannot normally bring a static IP from another provider. Static addresses are allocated from the provider's own network ranges, so a move to BT means a new address. Plan the change with anyone who has your current address on an allow-list. Our switching guide covers the rest of the move.
Keeping a static IP secure
A fixed address is easier for you to find, and also easier for attackers to scan. If you open services to the internet:
- Put a proper firewall in front of anything you expose, and open only the ports you need
- Never publish remote desktop directly to the internet: use a VPN or a zero trust access service instead
- Protect remote logins with multi-factor authentication
- Keep the hub, firewall, cameras and servers patched, and change every default password
- Restrict inbound access to known addresses where your suppliers allow it
These steps line up with the firewall and secure configuration controls in Cyber Essentials. For managed firewall options see BT business broadband security.
How we help
We work out whether you need a static IP at all, pick the right package so you are not paying for an extra you could get included, and help configure your hub or firewall. Contact us for a quote.
Why buy BT through Forever Communications
Forever Communications Ltd is a BT Business Partner, supplying BT Business connectivity, voice and mobile services to UK organisations. You get BT's network with a named team who knows your account.
- Impartial advice on the right BT product for each site, from Essential, Enhanced, Pro and Ultra business broadband to BTnet and BT Ethernet
- One point of contact for availability checks, orders, installations, moves, upgrades, faults and renewals
- Ready for the PSTN switch-off: digital phone lines, SoGEA, BT Cloud Voice, BT Cloud Phone and Digital Voice for Business, with your numbers kept where possible
- Multi-site and sector know-how for schools, GP surgeries, retailers, hospitality venues and growing offices
- Mobile and security too: EE Business mobiles from BT Group, Hybrid Backup on the EE Business 4G network, and BT security options alongside our wider Cyber Essentials help
We sell to businesses, schools, charities and public sector organisations. We do not sell consumer or home products.
Want a BT Business quote for your sites?
Tell Forever Communications what you need and we will come back to you by email with options, not a hard sell.
Contact usFrequently asked questions
Does BT business broadband come with a static IP?
BT includes a free static IP on its Enhanced package. On Essential you get a dynamic address with the option to add a static IP. Ultra does not support static IP addresses.
Can I keep my static IP address when I switch to BT?
Normally not. Static IP addresses are allocated from your current provider's network ranges, so you get a new address from BT. Order the static IP with your BT Business Broadband and update VPNs, allow-lists and DNS records before the switch.
How do I find my BT business static IP address?
From a device on your network, visit any 'what is my IP' website to see the public address your connection is using. If you are not sure whether it is your static address, contact us and we will check it for you.
Do I need a static IP for a VPN?
For a site-to-site VPN, or remote staff connecting into the office, a static IP at the office end makes life much easier. Cloud-based remote access tools often remove the need for one.
How many static IP addresses can I get on BT business broadband?
BT offers a single static IP, and its terms allow up to five additional addresses for an extra charge. Businesses needing more usually look at a BTnet leased line, where we can discuss IP address requirements.