English
РусскийHOSTKEY has introduced a new option that allows customers to change the primary IP address assigned to a virtual machine directly from the control panel. The feature is currently available on a test basis and does not carry an additional charge.
The provider has not ruled out changes to the service after the testing period. Depending on the results, IP address replacement could become a paid feature or be discontinued altogether. For now, however, changing an address does not require a separate support request.
IP replacement moves into the control panel
The new feature is designed to handle situations where a particular IP address causes connectivity problems with an external website or service. The replacement process is initiated from the server's "Network" section in the customer account.
Before changing an address, HOSTKEY requires customers to check the server's network configuration. If DHCP is enabled, the new address should be configured automatically. Servers with a static network configuration may require manual changes after the replacement. The server is rebooted as part of the procedure, so the IP address does not exactly change with the subtlety of a magician swapping cards.
The new address is assigned automatically and is not checked in advance against every website, service or network in the selected location. As a result, changing an IP address does not guarantee that access to a particular external resource will be restored.
A new IP does not guarantee a new result
HOSTKEY notes that access problems can have causes unrelated to the server's IP address. A website or service may impose its own restrictions, while access to certain resources can also be limited by applicable legislation.
The provider therefore distinguishes between an IP-related connectivity problem and restrictions imposed by the destination itself. If the new address does not solve the issue, customers can contact support and request another replacement where possible. The number of additional changes is limited.
HOSTKEY also warns that the growing number of IP replacement requests may increase support processing times. In other words, the feature may be automated, but the support queue still operates according to the laws of physics.
The provider does not consider an IP replacement, the resulting server reboot or temporary equipment unavailability to constitute service downtime when these events are directly related to the customer's network configuration. The same applies to the inability to access individual external websites or services if network connectivity to the server itself remains available.
For now, the IP replacement feature remains part of HOSTKEY's testing process. Its final availability and pricing model will depend on the results of that period.