When most people think of a VPN, they imagine their IP address constantly changing, blending into a pool of shared addresses from different locations. That’s true for the default setup of most VPN services, including Surfshark. But sometimes, having a static IP address—one that stays the same every time you connect—can be more useful than a rotating or dynamic one.

Surfshark offers a Static IP feature that gives you a fixed, dedicated IP address from one of their selected locations. While this might seem like a step backward in anonymity, there are certain cases where it’s not only worth using but also the better option.

In this guide, we’ll break down what Surfshark’s Static IP is, how it works, and when you should consider enabling it.

What Is a Static IP with Surfshark?

A static IP is a VPN-assigned IP address that remains the same each time you connect. Instead of joining a shared server with hundreds of other users, you’re assigned one IP address that doesn’t change.

Surfshark offers static IP servers in locations such as:

• Germany

• Japan

• Singapore

• United Kingdom

• United States
  
  

When you connect to one of these servers, you’ll always appear to have the same IP from that location until you switch to another server type.

How Surfshark Static IP Works

Surfshark’s Static IP is still routed through encrypted VPN tunnels, meaning your online traffic is protected just like with any other Surfshark connection. The difference lies in IP consistency:

1. You choose a Static IP location in the Surfshark app.

2. The same IP address is assigned to you every time you connect to that location.

3. Your online activity appears to come from the same “identity” instead of switching constantly.
   
   

It’s important to note that Surfshark’s static IP servers are shared static IPs, meaning the same fixed IP is used by multiple Surfshark users—not just you. This provides a balance between privacy and usability.

Advantages of Using a Static IP

While dynamic IPs are great for anonymity, a static IP can solve specific problems. Here are the main benefits:

1. Easier Access to Secure Networks

Some corporate, educational, or private systems restrict access to specific whitelisted IP addresses. If your IP changes every time you connect, you’d need to update the whitelist repeatedly. With a static IP, you only whitelist once.

2. Fewer CAPTCHAs

If you’ve ever been bombarded with endless CAPTCHAs because your dynamic IP is flagged as “suspicious,” a static IP can help. Since you’re using the same IP each time, websites are less likely to throw extra verification steps at you.

3. Reliable Remote Access

If you manage servers, security cameras, or home networks remotely, having a fixed IP simplifies the process. Many remote access systems work better—or only work at all—when the IP is constant.

4. Stable Online Gaming Sessions

Some multiplayer games or platforms don’t play well with frequently changing IP addresses. Using a static IP can reduce connection errors and make it easier to maintain stable matches.

5. Consistent Location for Streaming

If you’re watching region-locked content, a static IP can help maintain uninterrupted access without triggering security measures from streaming services.

Potential Downsides of Static IP

While static IPs have benefits, they also come with trade-offs:

• Slightly Less Anonymity – A fixed IP means your activity could be more consistently linked to one digital identity, even if it’s shared among multiple users.

• Limited Locations – Surfshark offers fewer locations for Static IP compared to regular servers.

• Potential Blacklisting – If someone else using the same static IP abuses it, certain websites might temporarily block it.
  
  

When It’s Worth Using Surfshark Static IP

The Static IP feature is not for everyone, but it’s incredibly useful in these cases:

1. You regularly log into secure systems that only accept certain IP addresses.

2. You’re tired of solving CAPTCHAs every time you visit a website.

3. You need reliable remote connections for work or personal use.

4. You want a consistent region identity for streaming or online services.

5. You play online games that have strict session or IP rules.
   
   

If your primary VPN use is casual browsing or maximum anonymity, stick to dynamic IPs. But if you run into any of the situations above, a static IP can save you time and frustration.

How to Enable Static IP in Surfshark

Enabling Static IP on Surfshark is straightforward:

1. Open the Surfshark app on your device.

2. Go to the Locations tab.

3. Select Static IP from the list.

4. Pick your desired country.

5. Connect and start browsing.
   
   

That’s it—you’ll now have the same IP every time you connect to that location.

Final Thoughts

Surfshark’s Static IP feature is a niche but valuable tool. While it trades a small amount of anonymity for convenience, it can make your online life much smoother if you frequently deal with IP-based restrictions or require stable connections.

If you’re the kind of user who manages remote networks, plays competitive online games, or wants hassle-free access to certain websites, Surfshark’s Static IP might be exactly what you need.

For everyone else, the standard dynamic IP setup will continue to provide the strongest privacy shield. The beauty of Surfshark is that you can switch between them with a single click—making it easy to adapt to whatever online situation you’re in.