my question isis it better to use a unc path rather than an ip path when creating user profiles?

UNC for sure. That way if you have to re-IP, your still fine.

I agree with Knightly UNC is the way to go DNS takes care of address resolution for you Deli

As if you needed more assurance, use DNS, not the IP - it's more flexible.

DNS without a doubt. Mike Clarkehttp://mystyleit.comCLS, WSCP, MCP, MCTS, MCSA+M, MCSE+M