In a Linux environment, configuring a static IP address is essential for servers and devices that require a consistent network identity. Unlike dynamic IP addresses, which can change over time, a static IP address remains constant, ensuring reliable communication and accessibility. This article will guide you through the process of setting up a static IP address on various Linux distributions, highlighting its importance in network management and server configuration.

Examples:

Configuring a Static IP on Ubuntu/Debian

1. Edit the network configuration file:
Open the /etc/netplan/01-netcfg.yaml file using a text editor like nano or vim.

   sudo nano /etc/netplan/01-netcfg.yaml

2. Modify the configuration:
Update the file with your network details. Here is an example configuration:

   network:

     version: 2

     ethernets:

       eth0:

         dhcp4: no

         addresses:

           - 192.168.1.100/24

         gateway4: 192.168.1.1

         nameservers:

           addresses:

             - 8.8.8.8

             - 8.8.4.4

3. Apply the changes:
Save the file and apply the configuration using the netplan command.

   sudo netplan apply

Configuring a Static IP on CentOS/RHEL

1. Edit the network configuration file:
Open the appropriate configuration file for your network interface, typically found in /etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/ifcfg-eth0.

   sudo nano /etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/ifcfg-eth0

2. Modify the configuration:
Update the file with your network details. Here is an example configuration:

   TYPE=Ethernet

   BOOTPROTO=none

   NAME=eth0

   DEVICE=eth0

   ONBOOT=yes

   IPADDR=192.168.1.100

   PREFIX=24

   GATEWAY=192.168.1.1

   DNS1=8.8.8.8

   DNS2=8.8.4.4

3. Restart the network service:
Save the file and restart the network service to apply the changes.

   sudo systemctl restart network

Configuring a Static IP on Fedora

1. Edit the network configuration file:
Open the appropriate configuration file for your network interface, typically found in /etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/ifcfg-eth0.

   sudo nano /etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/ifcfg-eth0

2. Modify the configuration:
Update the file with your network details. Here is an example configuration:

   TYPE=Ethernet

   BOOTPROTO=none

   NAME=eth0

   DEVICE=eth0

   ONBOOT=yes

   IPADDR=192.168.1.100

   PREFIX=24

   GATEWAY=192.168.1.1

   DNS1=8.8.8.8

   DNS2=8.8.4.4

3. Restart the network service:
Save the file and restart the network service to apply the changes.

   sudo systemctl restart network