I have been informed I need a fixed IP to be able to do business with the Federal Government in certain specific areas. How do I go about obtaining a fixed IP. I have requested information from Comcast and they do not provide fixed IPs.

Answer:

This is also called "static IP". It's normal purpose is to increase security and/or to set up a secure VPN connection.

Comcast does offer a product called "Comcast Pro" http://www.comcast.com/Support/Corp1/FAQ/FaqDetail_2233.html

They use the term "persistent IP", which indicates that your IP can stay the same for up to 6 months, however the IP might change without advance notice.

If that's not good enough, your choices might include:

1. find a local ISP that will set up a static IP on dialup or ISDN
2. get DSL from Verizon or Covad (or someone reselling covad)
3. Find a local provider that offers "Fixed Wireless (802.11)"

Cable and Phone companies are in a very tough battle for market share at the moment - it may well be that if you leaned hard enough on Comcast, they might have some other option that they don't publicize. They really want to keep you as a customer.

There are probably other options available depending on the budget.