Static addresses are permanently assigned to a computer or device. A dynamic address is assigned "as needed" by a special server that recognizes when a computer or device needs an address. Dynamic IP addressing gives an organization flexibility in using its allotted IP addresses.
Blocks of IP addresses are assigned to organizations by one of several domain name registrars. Again, remember that one of the hallmarks of the Internet is the absence of a central point of control. The companies that register domain names and IP addresses are for-profit organizations that sell their name registration services. There
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is also one database that contains all domain names, IP addresses, and "owners"; it is maintained by Network Solutions, Inc. (Oz, 2004; Stair & Reynolds, 2003).