How do I get a static IP address with SBC DSL?

The problem with dynamic IP addresses is that you can never be sure about your IP address if you need to access your home (or business) remotely. With most ISPs you must pay an extra charge to obtain a static IP address. The workaround is to use a Dynamic DNS (Domain Name Server) service. This is a web-based service that keeps track of your IP address and allows you to always access your home (or business) by using a special URL. For example, http://myhome314.dyndns.org [NOT a working URL] will always point to the same server, even after the IP address changes. A client on your PC or a client built into your router updates the service whenever your IP address changes. DynDNS.org and TZO.com are popular providers of dynamic DNS services and have clients built into most routers (NETGEAR, Linksys, etc.). Others are DNS2Go, DynIP and No-IP. Most charge a small fee, but DynDNS has a limited offering for free. Paid services generally provide more support as well as more flexibility in choosing domain names/URLs. Check your router to see what service is supported by looking for Dynamic DNS in the menu or by checking the manual. Note that you will also have to open a port on your router to allow the incoming traffic. See Port Forwarding or Firewall Rules on your router. If you do this, I strongly recommend running a software firewall such as Windows Firewall (XP SP2) or ZoneAlarm (free version available). Much more information is available from the service providers listed.

I don't know if you'll be able to get a static IP, but there are plenty of free services that will keep track of your IP address and give you an easy to remember URL that you can use to access your computer. I've listed a few services that I use below, their sites have great documentation and will help you get everything all set up.

I don't know if you'll be able to get a static IP, but there are plenty of free services that will keep track of your IP address and give you an easy to remember URL that you can use to access your computer. I've listed a few services that I use below, their sites have great documentation and will help you get everything all set up.