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How to Setup Port Forwarding with DDNS?

Published in Networking 5 mins read

Setting up port forwarding with DDNS (Dynamic Domain Name System) allows you to access devices on your home network from the internet, even when your internet service provider (ISP) assigns you a dynamic IP address that changes periodically. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Understand the Concepts

  • Port Forwarding: Directs network traffic from a specific port on your router's public IP address to a specific device (e.g., a computer, security camera) on your local network.
  • DDNS: Provides a consistent hostname (e.g., myhome.example.com) that automatically updates to point to your ever-changing public IP address. This prevents you from having to remember and update the IP address manually.

2. Choose a DDNS Provider

Several DDNS providers are available, some offering free services and others offering paid subscriptions with enhanced features. Popular options include:

  • No-IP: (Free and paid options)
  • DynDNS: (Paid options)
  • DuckDNS: (Free, but requires periodic script execution)
  • Many router manufacturers also offer free DDNS services tied to their hardware. Check your router's documentation.

3. Register with Your Chosen DDNS Provider

  • Go to the DDNS provider's website and create an account.
  • Choose a hostname (e.g., myhomeserver.ddns.net). Ensure it's available.
  • Follow the provider's instructions to set up your account. This often involves verifying your email address.

4. Configure DDNS on Your Router

Most modern routers have built-in DDNS client functionality.

  • Log in to your router's administration panel. This is typically done by entering your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, but check your router's documentation) into your web browser. You'll need the router's username and password (often found on a sticker on the router itself or in the router's manual).
  • Find the DDNS settings. Look for sections like "Dynamic DNS," "DDNS," or "Advanced Settings."
  • Select your DDNS provider from the list. If your provider isn't listed, you may be able to configure it manually using custom settings (check your provider's instructions).
  • Enter your DDNS hostname, username, and password. These are the credentials you created when registering with your DDNS provider.
  • Save the settings. The router will now automatically update your DDNS record with your current public IP address whenever it changes.
  • Verify DDNS Status. The router should show a successful connection or updated status for the DDNS service.

5. Set Up Port Forwarding on Your Router

  • Determine the internal IP address of the device you want to access. This can usually be found in your router's DHCP client list or device settings. For example, 192.168.1.100.
  • Determine the port number required by the service you want to access. Common ports include:
    • 80: HTTP (web server)
    • 443: HTTPS (secure web server)
    • 21: FTP (file transfer protocol)
    • 22: SSH (secure shell)
    • 3389: RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol)
  • Find the Port Forwarding section in your router's configuration. It's often under "Advanced Settings," "NAT Forwarding," or "Port Forwarding/Port Triggering."
  • Create a new port forwarding rule. You'll need to specify:
    • Service Name/Description: A descriptive name for the rule (e.g., "Web Server").
    • Protocol: TCP, UDP, or Both. Check the service's documentation to determine the appropriate protocol.
    • External/Public Port: The port number you want to be accessible from the internet (e.g., 80).
    • Internal/Private Port: The port number on the internal device (usually the same as the external port, e.g., 80).
    • Internal IP Address: The IP address of the device on your local network (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
  • Enable the rule.
  • Save the settings.

6. Test Your Configuration

  • From outside your home network (e.g., using a mobile phone on a cellular network), try to access your service using your DDNS hostname and the forwarded port. For example, if you're forwarding port 80 to a web server, you would enter http://yourhostname.ddns.net in a web browser.
  • If you are forwarding a port other than 80 or 443, you need to specify the port in the URL. For example, if you are forwarding port 8080, you would enter http://yourhostname.ddns.net:8080.
  • Use online port checking tools. Websites like "YouGetSignal.com" or "PortCheckers.com" can verify if a specific port is open on your public IP address or DDNS hostname.

Troubleshooting

  • Double-check all settings: Ensure you've entered the correct IP addresses, port numbers, and DDNS credentials.
  • Firewall: Make sure your device's firewall isn't blocking the incoming connection.
  • Router Firmware: Keep your router's firmware up to date.
  • ISP Blocking: Some ISPs block certain ports. You may need to use a different port.
  • Double NAT: If you have multiple routers in your network (e.g., a modem/router combo and a separate router), you may need to configure port forwarding on both devices. This is less common now, but still possible.

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