Choosing between a dedicated IP and a shared IP isn’t just a technical decision — it’s a pipeline decision.
Deliverability, speed, reputation, even compliance — it all ties back to your IP setup.
In 2025, this choice is harder than ever.
Email volume is exploding.
Spam filters are smarter.
IP reputation can make or break your outreach. If you care about growth, you need to get this right.
This guide breaks it all down — no jargon, just what actually matters.
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is your digital identity.
It's how the internet recognizes your emails, servers, devices—basically, anything you're sending or hosting online.
Example: typing “64.233.187.99” loads Google.com. That’s how it works behind the scenes.
There are two main versions:
By early 2025, global IPv6 adoption is over 43%, with countries like France (80%), Germany (75%), and India (74%) leading, while the U.S. lags at just over 50%
Here’s why this matters:
As more systems go IPv6-first, your provider’s infrastructure will directly affect your scalability and deliverability.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) assign IP addresses.
The Domain Name System (DNS) translates user-friendly domain names (e.g., google.com) into IP addresses, simplifying access.
Mailforge automates DNS setup for shared IPs, making them user-friendly.
Let’s break down how dedicated and shared IPs actually stack up.
A dedicated IP is yours alone. Think of it like your own phone number.
You control everything that happens with it, and only your actions impact the results.
Infraforge uses dedicated IPs to guarantee inbox placement for serious senders.
A shared IP is used by multiple users at the same time. It’s like a group email line.
It’s cheaper, and it works—if the provider keeps the pool clean.
Mailforge does this well by rotating high-reputation IPs between vetted users.
Here’s a quick side-by-side:
At a glance:
Let’s break down what each setup gives you.
Infraforge helps automate warmup and monitoring so you’re not buried in technical maintenance — but make no mistake, you’re in charge.
Still not sure which one’s right for you? Let’s map it to real-world use cases.
Now let’s talk about performance — where speed, stability, and security really separate these two.
Dedicated IPs:
Shared IPs:
What’s the hidden cost?
Bad deliverability = lost revenue.
Your emails never hit the inbox? Doesn’t matter how good your copy is.
The future of IPs is evolving rapidly.
IoT, 5G, and growing demand for secure, static IPs—all made scalable by IPv6.
Dedicated IPs give you control, security, and performance—perfect if you send high-volume email, need strong hosting, or operate in a regulated space.
Shared IPs offer speed, simplicity, and low cost—ideal for startups, solo marketers, or teams just getting started.
IPv6 makes both options better. But your choice comes down to control, risk tolerance, and what you’re trying to scale.
Quick Recap:
Mailforge simplifies shared IP outreach with no warmup or maintenance. Try Mailforge for free now!
Infraforge gives power users full control with automated warmup, blacklist monitoring, and a dedicated lane. Try Infraforge for free!
Pick the setup that matches your growth stage—and scale with confidence.