An IP address is used to reach a service on a network. Several websites can share the same IP address; the server uses information such as the requested domain name to serve the correct site. A dedicated address is assigned to a particular use or account according to the provider’s configuration. It does not, by itself, mean you have a dedicated physical server.
Does HTTPS work with a shared address?
Yes. With SNI, several domains can use their own TLS certificates on the same IP address. You need a valid certificate for your domain and a correct HTTPS configuration; buying a dedicated address does not automatically improve encryption and is generally unnecessary for a modern website. The cPanel SSL documentation explains this distinction.
What a dedicated address does not automatically change
- Resources: CPU, memory and execution-time limits depend on the service and its configuration, not on whether the IP address is shared or dedicated.
- Access and security: a dedicated address does not automatically grant administrator access, additional ports or complete isolation. Network rules and permissions still need to be defined.
- Email: the address used to send messages depends on the mail service configuration. Your website’s address may differ from the sending server’s address. A dedicated website address therefore guarantees neither a new sending address nor inbox delivery.
When should you consider one?
A particular address may be useful when software requires a specific network binding or a partner requires a stable address to allow. First establish whether the requirement concerns incoming connections, outgoing connections or email. These uses are not interchangeable.
Before a change, have DNS dependencies, certificates and access rules checked. To compare the options actually available, describe your requirements to our team, or review our web hosting and SSL certificate pages. We can determine whether an address change addresses the problem.
Technical reference: Exim sending-address configuration.
