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