What IP addresses do you offer? 

At Connect, we offer all of our customers a CGNAT IP address by default, unless your package (home or business) includes a Static IP (check your deal), in which case, you will not be given a CGNAT IP.

Static IP addresses can be added to any order for £5 per month rolling - if you wish to have one please call us on 01223 080790 so the team can assist. 

We offer a CGNAT IP by default, but what does this mean for you in terms of using our service? And what IP address do you need? 

CGNAT: Also known as "Double NAT"

How it works:

We (the ISP) assign a private, internal IPv4 address to your router. When you access the web, your traffic goes through our NAT system, and will randomly assign you a public, front facing IPv4. Due to the nature of CGNAT, it is possible that this public IP is being shared with other customers. 

Pros/Cons:

• Incoming connections are generally blocked

• No port forwarding

• More private by default (Impossible for a malicious user to detect your internal IP)

• Some secure services (workplace VPN's/Banking sites) can detect CGNAT as "malicious" causing connection difficulties

• Can cause "moderate"or "Strict" NAT type on Xbox, Playstation and other gaming services

Static: Also known as a "Public" IP

How it works:

We (the ISP) assign a public IP address to your router, via a reserved DHCP system (see here: Does Connect Fibre use PPPoE or DHCP?) This IP address does NOT undergo the NAT layer, as such, it communicates directly to the internet/WWW - and is not shared with any other Connect Fibre user. 


Pros/Cons:

• Public IPv4 is dedicated to your connection

• Incoming connections can be allowed (with firewall/port forwarding)
• Accessible from the internet (Possible for a malicious user to detect your internal IP)
• Some peer-to-peer games or voice applications may work more reliably with a public IP
  
  
• Consistent IP addresses for business services, home servers, hosting etc