Dynamic Domain Name System (DDNS)
DDNS is an extension of the DNS that allows for the dynamic updating of a domain name’s IP address. Method to automatically update a name server in the DNS.
Useful for home networks or any internet-connected device where the IP address can change frequently, such as with DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) assigned by an ISP.
Key features of DDNS include:
- Dynamic Updates: Automatically updates the DNS record as your IP address changes, which is crucial for remote access applications like VPNs, remote desktop software, and online gaming.
- Convenience: Makes it easier to host servers or services from a home network without needing a static IP address.
- Cost-effective: Reduces the need for more expensive, static IP addresses for home users or small businesses.
How to access your home network remotely, how it works:
Dynamic IP address: your ISP assigns a dynamic IP address to your router which may change every time your router restarts or after some time.
DDNS Service: sign up for a DDNS service and configure your router or a server inside your home network to update the DDNS service provider with the current IP address of your router.
Access using domain: that way, we can access home network remotely using a domain name instead of the IP address. Whenever we enter this domain name, the DDNS service routes you to the correct, current IP address of your home network.
This setup means that even if your home’s IP address changes, you don’t need to keep track of the new IP each time to connect to your network; the DDNS service handles this by automatically updating the link between your domain name and the current IP address. It’s especially useful for hosting a website from home, using remote desktop applications, accessing home security cameras, or even running a personal cloud storage service.