What is the key difference between static and dynamic IP addressing?

The key difference between static and dynamic IP addressing lies in how IP addresses are assigned and maintained. Static IP addressing involves assigning a fixed IP address to a device, which does not change unless it is manually reconfigured. This means that the device always retains the same IP address, making it easier for remote access and consistent communication. It's particularly useful for devices that need to be consistently reachable, such as servers or network printers.

On the other hand, dynamic IP addressing assigns temporary IP addresses to devices from a pool of available addresses managed by a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server. These addresses can change over time, especially after the lease period expires or when a device disconnects and reconnects to the network. This method is more efficient for networks with a high number of devices since it allows for better utilization of the available IP address space.

In this context, the choice that accurately describes the difference is that static IP addressing assigns fixed IPs while dynamic addressing assigns temporary IPs. Understanding this distinction is crucial for network management and configuration, as each method serves different operational needs.