Chris

The main advantage of a fixed IP address is that it allows you to run a server and host your own web site from the comfort of your own home. It also allows you to set up a home network using fixed IPs for all the component parts.

I'm intrigued to know why your ISP should be offering this service as it normally costs more than a dynamic address. An ISP has to pay for a range of IP addresses and if he can use the same address for several users by offering them on a dynamic basis he can save a few bob. What have you done to get this favoured treatment?

If you do go for a fixed one it becomes even more important that you have all the right security software on board, in particular a good firewall, preferably a hardware one through a router.