How crucial is it to have a Unique IP on a shared hosting account?

What are the ramifications of Not having a Unique IP?

[Egbert Souse]

We are going to switch hosting companies. We have unique IP's on our current shared hosting, the package from the host we are interested in does not offer a unique IP.

We will be using their shared Certificate for our cart, and have a shared IP.

What are the dangers to us?
The sales person from the host told me that a unique IP has the following benefits (they do sell a plan for $10.00 more a month for a unique IP but I don't want to get into a discussion of "You should look for a new host" at this time).

He told me that the main reason someone would want a unique IP is that they are installing their own Certificate.

He said that the other reason some people want a unique IP is in case someone is spamming on the shared hosting, it will not affect our ability to send email.

I still feel that I am not getting the whole story. Any input is greatly appreciated.

[Manish Singh]

If you are installing an SSL certificate go for a dedicated unique IP.

Regarding the Spamming, if its a shared IP and its blacklisted due to spamming, then all accounts using the shared IP may have problems sending/receiving emails as filters may mark the emails as SPAM.

You can check the blacklist status of your IP at

#*$!

Its not uncommon for hosts to charge extra for a dedicated IP.

Edit: the reply processor feels I am advertising ;-) so in case you need the URL, just sticky me :-)