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This article covers what IP Addresses are, and how they relate to MacPractice and other services. Understanding what an IP address is will be very important when considering how to connect a MacPractice client to a MacPractice server.

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Explanation

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Static and Dynamic IP Addresses

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Table of Contents

Explanation

An IP address identifies a computer on a network. You can consider an IP address to be similar to the street address of a business or a home in real-world terms.

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When connecting a MacPractice Client to a MacPractice Server, you need the Server's Internal IP address so the client knows where on the network to look for the device.

Static and Dynamic IP Addresses

IP Addresses can be either static or dynamic.

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Contact MacPractice Support to learn more and to ascertain whether you would need this sort of configuration for your office. Keep in mind that MacPractice Support is not able to configure your network, as this would require the aid of a network specialist that is familiar with the specific needs of your office.  

Dynamic DNS Configuration

MacPractice recommends using a static IP address with Patient Portal. If you choose not to use a static IP address, you will need to set up a dynamic DNS system that uses update software to keep your hostname's IP address up-to-date. A static IP purchased through your ISP will never change, whereas a dynamic DNS system periodically checks for a change to a dynamic IP address, then maps the new address to the hostname established with the dynamic DNS provider.

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