How to Set a Static IP Address in Linux Using nmtui

1. Why You Need a Static IP

A static IP makes your server reachable at a predictable address, critical for services like Asterisk, SSH, and web apps. DHCP‑assigned addresses can change, breaking SIP registrations and firewall rules.

2. Prerequisites

• A server or VM running a NetworkManager‑enabled distro.

• sudo privileges or root access.

The nmtui utility (ships with NetworkManager‑text‑ui). Install if missing:

sudo apt install network-manager network-manager-gnome      #Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf install NetworkManager-tui                         #RHEL/Fedora/Rocky

3. Step‑by‑Step Guide

3.1  Launch nmtui

sudo nmtui

3.2  Select Edit a connection

Use ↑/↓ keys to highlight Edit a connection and press Enter.

3.3  Choose the Network Interface

Highlight your active interface (eth0, ens18, enp1s0, etc.) → Enter.

3.4  Switch IPv4 Method to Manual

• Move to IPv4 CONFIGURATION.

• Press Enter, choose Manual.

3.5  Enter IP, Gateway & DNS

Fill the fields:

3.6  Save & Quit

Hit OK → Back → Quit.

3.7  Activate the Connection

sudo nmcli connection up <interface-name>

Replace <interface-name> with the one you edited (e.g., ens18).

4. Verify the Static IP

ip a | grep -A2 <interface-name>

You should see your new IP (192.168.1.50). Test connectivity:

ping -c 4 8.8.8.8

5. Apply Changes Without Reboot

If you skipped step 3.7:

sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager

Or simply disconnect/reconnect the NIC:

nmcli device disconnect <interface-name>
nmcli device connect <interface-name>

6. Common Errors & Fixes

7. Conclusion & Next Steps

You now have a persistent static IP configured via the user‑friendly nmtui tool. This is an essential foundation before installing services like Asterisk or FreePBX.

8. TL;DR for Power Users

sudo nmtui
# Edit connection → <interface> → IPv4 CONFIG → Manual
#   Address: 192.168.1.50/24
#   Gateway: 192.168.1.1
#   DNS:     1.1.1.1,8.8.8.8
sudo nmcli connection up <interface>

Continue the series:

• 👉 How to Check Your IP Address in Linux – 5 Ways (coming soon)