When managing Linux servers, having a static IP address is crucial for consistent connectivity, especially in production environments. In AlmaLinux 9, systemd-networkd is the recommended way to manage network configurations — offering simplicity, speed, and reliability.

In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through how to assign a static IP address using networkctl and systemd-networkd.

Why Use systemd-networkd for Static IP Configuration?

systemd-networkd is a native systemd service that handles basic network configuration. It’s lightweight and ideal for headless or server environments.

Key benefits include:

  • Faster boot times 
  • Cleaner configuration management 
  • Better integration with systemd services 

Step-by-Step: Configuring a Static IP on AlmaLinux 9

Step 1: Check Network Service Status

Before making changes, verify that the required services are active:

systemctl status systemd-networkd

systemctl status systemd-resolved

If they are inactive or failed, start them with:

systemctl start systemd-networkd

systemctl start systemd-resolved

And enable them to persist after reboot:

systemctl enable systemd-networkd

systemctl enable systemd-resolved

Step 2: Identify Your Network Interface

Use the following command to find your network interface name

ip link

or

ip a

Look for interfaces like enp0s3, eth0, or similar.

Step 3: Create a Static Network Configuration File

Navigate to the configuration directory:

cd /etc/systemd/network/

Now, create a new configuration file. Replace enoxx with your actual interface name:

nano 20-static.network

Add the following content to define your static IP:

[Match]

Name=enoxx

[Network]

Address=192.168.1.x/x

Gateway=192.168.1.1

DNS=8.8.8.8

DNS=8.8.4.4

Note:

  • Replace 192.168.1.x/x with your desired static IP address and subnet (e.g., 192.168.1.100/24). 
  • Replace 192.168.1.1 with your network’s gateway IP. 
  • You can substitute Google DNS with your preferred DNS servers.

Step 4: Restart the Network Service

Apply the changes by restarting the network daemon

systemctl restart systemd-networkd

Step 5: Verify Your Network Configuration

Check if the static IP is successfully applied using:

networkctl status

or for a specific interface:

networkctl status enoxx

Step 6: Test Network Connectivity

Ensure the server can connect to the internet:

ping 8.8.8.8

Additional Commands

Bring an interface up manually:

networkctl up enoxx

To bring it down:

networkctl down enoxx

Conclusion

Configuring a static IP on AlmaLinux 9 using networkctl offers greater control, predictability, and performance. Whether you’re setting up production servers or cloud instances, understanding systemd-networkd ensures your network stays stable and reliable.

At ServerAdminz, we handle complex Linux configurations and infrastructure tuning around the clock. If you need assistance setting up, optimizing, or managing your Linux servers, our experts are just a click away.

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