A static IP address gives your connection a fixed, unchanging identity on the internet. Unlike a dynamic IP that can change over time, a static IP always stays the same — acting as a permanent online “home address” for your connection, such as 203.0.113.1. This consistency is ideal for anyone who needs a stable and reliable connection, including gamers, remote workers, and users who host services or access their network remotely. With a static IP, features like port forwarding, secure access, and server hosting are easier to manage and more dependable. With Grain, our static IP option offers greater control, reliability, and security without unnecessary complexity. Best of all, it’s available at clear, competitive prices as part of selected Grain broadband deals, making it a simple upgrade for anyone who wants more control over their connection.

Do I need a static IP?

Short answer: Probably not. Long answer: It depends! For most folks: Your regular IP address works just fine for Netflix binges and social media scrolling. For the tech-savvy: If you’re into remote work using a VPN, gaming servers, or home automation, a static IP might be your new best friend.

What is a Wi-Fi extender?

A Wi-Fi extender works like a helpful relay, picking up your existing Wi-Fi and rebroadcasting it to areas where the signal is weak, such as upstairs bedrooms or home offices. Your cheapest option to get one is to upgrade to one of our Boost packages which comes with a Wi-Fi extender included. Cheaper than buying one outright, and better value than renting on a rolling contract, giving you reliable Wi-Fi coverage without the hassle. Enjoy smoother streaming, faster browsing, and fewer dropouts with Boost!

How do I get the best signal from Wi-Fi?

There’s a few things you can do to improve your Wi-Fi network. Here’s just a few of them: Make sure your router is centrally placed Where possible, use the 5Ghz wireless band if you are close to your router Reduce interference by switching off microwaves, cordless phones, etc. Ensure your device is completely updated Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network Check the device network settings and ports Limit what others are doing on your network at the same time Take a look at our article about troubleshooting your Wi-Fi for more information.

What household items cause Wi-Fi interference?

There’s a number of unexpected things that could be slowing down your Wi-Fi signal, as they have the ability to absorb or reflect wireless signals. Mirrors. They don’t just reflect light. Mirrors with even a thin metal backing can reflect Wi-Fi signals, causing them to bounce around and potentially create dead zones or electromagnetic interference. Bluetooth devices. Bluetooth devices, such as speakers, keyboards, and headphones, can operate on similar frequencies as Wi-Fi and might cause interference if they’re in close proximity. Our recommendation? If you’re not using it, switch it off! Fluorescent lights. Believe it or not, certain types of fluorescent lights can emit electromagnetic interference that can impact your connection, especially in the 2.4 GHz range. If possible, give alternative lights a go – like LED. Water. It’s bad news for your family goldfish. Water can absorb and weaken Wi-Fi signals. Large containers of water like fish tanks, or even a crowded room of people, can reduce performance. Microwaves. They’re a recipe for disaster! That’s right, microwaves also operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range and can cause temporary interference when in use. Corded electronics. Some corded electronics, especially those with motors or transformers, can generate electromagnetic interference that might impact wi-fi performance. Walls and floors. As you would have guessed, thick walls made of concrete or brick, as well as floors with metal reinforcement, can significantly weaken Wi-Fi signals as they absorb or reflect the wireless signals.

Do I need a static IP for gaming?

Depends on the game and your set-up! A static IP can improve connection stability for online gaming, making it easier to maintain reliable multiplayer sessions, reduce disconnects, and support smoother matchmaking and voice chat — particularly for competitive or server-hosted games. If you are only playing Solitaire, or single-player Stardew Valley then you probably don’t need a static IP. Likewise, if you do most of your gaming on a console, a static IP won’t change much in terms of your network performance.

Can I host a game server with a static IP?

Absolutely. A static IP makes hosting a game server much simpler, as players can always connect using the same address without interruptions caused by IP changes.

Does a static IP improve upload speeds?

No. A static IP doesn’t increase your raw upload speed, but it does provide a more reliable and consistent connection, which is essential for streaming, hosting servers, and online gaming.

Do I need special equipment to use a static IP?

No special equipment is required. A static IP works with your existing router, though advanced users may choose to customise their settings for port forwarding or remote access. For advice on how these work, get in touch with our amazing tech support team.

Will my monthly cost change mid-contract?

The price you sign up for is locked in for your entire contract term. The only exceptions? If you choose to upgrade or add optional extras, like a phone package, Wi-Fi extender, or static IP.

What if I’m not seeing my full speeds?

First, check your set-up using a wired speed test using the correct test site and Grain speed test server. This removes Wi-Fi from the equation and gives you a true measure of what’s being delivered. If the wired speed is correct, the issue is likely with Wi-Fi performance or the device itself. If the wired speed is incorrect, reach out and our Tech team will take a further look into your set-up. We’re happy to help troubleshoot and provide guidance – and in some cases, recommend equipment upgrades or adjustments to improve performance.

Pro Package

The best of the best from only £5 a month

What's in the Pro package?

Built for power users, the Pro package includes a static IP for predictable, always-on connectivity and a Wi-Fi extender to eliminate dead zones. It’s the ideal solution for home offices, busy households, and anyone who needs reliable performance across their entire network.

Benefits of Pro

Complete home coverage

Enjoy strong, reliable Wi-Fi throughout your home with an included extender that helps eliminate weak spots and keeps every room connected.

Greater control and reliability

A static IP gives your connection a fixed, dependable address, improving stability and allowing greater control over advanced network settings.

Built for work, play and everything in-between

Ideal for busy households and home offices, delivering consistent performance for gaming, streaming, video calls, and everyday online use.

How do I get the Pro upgrade?

New customer? Just select the “Pro” upgrade option when you select your broadband package! See our broadband packages here

Existing customer? Simply click the chat box in the bottom corner to speak to one of our UK-based customer support team between 9am and 7pm, or out of hours you can get in touch and send us an email or request a callback at a time that suits you.

Not sure if you need both?

More package options

More about static IPs and Wi-Fi extenders

The Pro package combines two powerful upgrades designed to improve both coverage and control. A Wi-Fi extender expands your wireless network beyond the reach of your main router, helping eliminate weak spots and ensuring a strong, stable signal in every room. By extending your existing network rather than replacing it, your devices stay seamlessly connected as you move around your home.

Alongside extended coverage, the Pro package includes a static IP address. Unlike a standard dynamic IP that can change over time, a static IP remains fixed, giving your connection a consistent public identity online. This makes advanced networking features such as remote access, port forwarding, VPNs, and hosting services easier to manage and more reliable.

Together, these features create a more capable home network. Whether you’re working from home, managing multiple devices, hosting services, or simply want dependable connectivity throughout the house, the Pro package delivers both the reach and the control needed for a modern, connected home.

Frequently asked questions

What is a static IP?

A static IP address gives your connection a fixed, unchanging identity on the internet. Unlike a dynamic IP that can change over time, a static IP always stays the same — acting as a permanent online “home address” for your connection, such as 203.0.113.1.

This consistency is ideal for anyone who needs a stable and reliable connection, including gamers, remote workers, and users who host services or access their network remotely. With a static IP, features like port forwarding, secure access, and server hosting are easier to manage and more dependable.

With Grain, our static IP option offers greater control, reliability, and security without unnecessary complexity. Best of all, it’s available at clear, competitive prices as part of selected Grain broadband deals, making it a simple upgrade for anyone who wants more control over their connection.
Do I need a static IP?
Short answer: Probably not. Long answer: It depends!
- For most folks: Your regular IP address works just fine for Netflix binges and social media scrolling.
- For the tech-savvy: If you’re into remote work using a VPN, gaming servers, or home automation, a static IP might be your new best friend.
What is a Wi-Fi extender?

A Wi-Fi extender works like a helpful relay, picking up your existing Wi-Fi and rebroadcasting it to areas where the signal is weak, such as upstairs bedrooms or home offices.

Your cheapest option to get one is to upgrade to one of our Boost packages which comes with a Wi-Fi extender included. Cheaper than buying one outright, and better value than renting on a rolling contract, giving you reliable Wi-Fi coverage without the hassle. Enjoy smoother streaming, faster browsing, and fewer dropouts with Boost!
How do I get the best signal from Wi-Fi?
There’s a few things you can do to improve your Wi-Fi network. Here’s just a few of them:
- Make sure your router is centrally placed
- Where possible, use the 5Ghz wireless band if you are close to your router
- Reduce interference by switching off microwaves, cordless phones, etc.
- Ensure your device is completely updated
- Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network
- Check the device network settings and ports
- Limit what others are doing on your network at the same time
Take a look at our article about troubleshooting your Wi-Fi for more information.
What household items cause Wi-Fi interference?
There’s a number of unexpected things that could be slowing down your Wi-Fi signal, as they have the ability to absorb or reflect wireless signals.
- Mirrors. They don’t just reflect light. Mirrors with even a thin metal backing can reflect Wi-Fi signals, causing them to bounce around and potentially create dead zones or electromagnetic interference.
- Bluetooth devices. Bluetooth devices, such as speakers, keyboards, and headphones, can operate on similar frequencies as Wi-Fi and might cause interference if they’re in close proximity. Our recommendation? If you’re not using it, switch it off!
- Fluorescent lights. Believe it or not, certain types of fluorescent lights can emit electromagnetic interference that can impact your connection, especially in the 2.4 GHz range. If possible, give alternative lights a go – like LED.
- Water. It’s bad news for your family goldfish. Water can absorb and weaken Wi-Fi signals. Large containers of water like fish tanks, or even a crowded room of people, can reduce performance.
- Microwaves. They’re a recipe for disaster! That’s right, microwaves also operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range and can cause temporary interference when in use.
- Corded electronics. Some corded electronics, especially those with motors or transformers, can generate electromagnetic interference that might impact wi-fi performance.
- Walls and floors. As you would have guessed, thick walls made of concrete or brick, as well as floors with metal reinforcement, can significantly weaken Wi-Fi signals as they absorb or reflect the wireless signals.
Do I need a static IP for gaming?

Depends on the game and your set-up!

A static IP can improve connection stability for online gaming, making it easier to maintain reliable multiplayer sessions, reduce disconnects, and support smoother matchmaking and voice chat — particularly for competitive or server-hosted games.

If you are only playing Solitaire, or single-player Stardew Valley then you probably don’t need a static IP. Likewise, if you do most of your gaming on a console, a static IP won’t change much in terms of your network performance.
Can I host a game server with a static IP?

Absolutely. A static IP makes hosting a game server much simpler, as players can always connect using the same address without interruptions caused by IP changes.
Does a static IP improve upload speeds?

No. A static IP doesn’t increase your raw upload speed, but it does provide a more reliable and consistent connection, which is essential for streaming, hosting servers, and online gaming.
Do I need special equipment to use a static IP?

No special equipment is required. A static IP works with your existing router, though advanced users may choose to customise their settings for port forwarding or remote access. For advice on how these work, get in touch with our amazing tech support team.
Will my monthly cost change mid-contract?

The price you sign up for is locked in for your entire contract term. The only exceptions? If you choose to upgrade or add optional extras, like a phone package, Wi-Fi extender, or static IP.
What if I’m not seeing my full speeds?

First, check your set-up using a wired speed test using the correct test site and Grain speed test server. This removes Wi-Fi from the equation and gives you a true measure of what’s being delivered.

If the wired speed is correct, the issue is likely with Wi-Fi performance or the device itself. If the wired speed is incorrect, reach out and our Tech team will take a further look into your set-up.

We’re happy to help troubleshoot and provide guidance – and in some cases, recommend equipment upgrades or adjustments to improve performance.