Short answer: most home Internet users don’t.
If your Internet use is mainly browsing, streaming, gaming, working from home, and using cloud services, Neptune’s recommended CGNAT setup is usually the right choice.
This guide helps you decide whether a Static IP is actually necessary for your situation.
You probably don’t need a Static IP if…
CGNAT is likely a good fit if:
You don’t host services or servers from home
You don’t need inbound connections to your network
You’re happy using IPv6 where it’s supported
You don’t want to manage firewall rules or exposed ports
You just want your internet connection to work without extra setup
For most households, CGNAT works seamlessly and requires no configuration.
You may need a Static IP if…
A Static IP may be worth considering if you:
Host servers or services from home
Need reliable inbound access over IPv4
Rely on port forwarding
Use software, games, or tools that don’t support IPv6
Need a fixed, publicly reachable IPv4 address for work or testing
Prefer full control over firewall and routing behaviour
In these cases, a Static IP provides maximum compatibility and flexibility.
What about IPv6?
Neptune services support IPv6 alongside IPv4. Some inbound connectivity and hosting can work over IPv6 even when using CGNAT. However, IPv6 support isn’t universal, and many applications still assume IPv4. If you need guaranteed inbound access across all environments, a Static IP is the safer option.
Can I change later?
Yes. Many customers start with CGNAT and only switch to a Static IP if they later discover they need inbound IPv4 connectivity. You’re not locked in either way, and the switch takes about 3-5 minutes.
Still unsure?
If you’re not certain, start with CGNAT. It’s simpler, more secure by default, and suitable for most home connections. You can always switch to Static IP later if your needs change.