Previously, configuring networking in Linux would require you to use a few commands in the terminal. Now, you no longer need to open a terminal window only to configure a network connection in GNOME.
Static IP and Dynamic IP are used for different purposes. A static address is a unique IP address that remains the same unless you decide to change to a new static IP. You need to configure a static IP address manually.
On the other hand, a dynamic IP address changes frequently, and it is automatically assigned to your device via the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). The DHCP server will change the IP each time it establishes an internet connection. Typically, dynamic IP addresses are assigned to almost all home-based devices, unless you have a specific need for a static address.
A static IP address is beneficial and necessary for devices that need constant external access. For instance, you would require a static IP when considering a printer shared by multiple devices or accessing it remotely.
While a dynamic IP would give your device a new IP address, you might not want that since the device will be harder to find on the network. That is why a static IP address is preferable.
Note: The steps mentioned assume you are using a wired connection. If you’ve got a wireless connection, you’ll need to change the type of connection you edit. Also, you must have a static IP already configured on your router/modem.
To gain access to the Network Manager, follow these steps:
On the Network Settings window, you can easily view your wired connection. Here are the steps to open the Network Manager and configure the network connection:
Now you’re back to the Network Settings window. You can see that your IP address isn’t reflecting the newly configured settings. You must restart the Network Manager. Here’s the process:
Once the Network Manager has restarted, you should see the newly configured IP address.