DynDNS support | bHosted

Introduction

At the office or at home, there are one or more computer(s) that need to be accessible from the internet. Unfortunately, the internet connection does not have a fixed IP address, which makes it difficult to keep the services accessible. Manually changing the IP address every month, week, or even daily is not convenient and takes too long.

Staying accessible with a dynamic IP address

To solve this problem, there is the dynamic DNS protocol. With this, a (sub-)domain can be easily and fully automated provided with the new, changed IP address and the services running at the office or at home remain accessible. Despite the regular IP address changes.

The dynamic DNS protocol must be supported by a device within the network. For example, the internet modem that is connected to the internet connection. An example of such a modem is the FRITZ!Box modem that is supplied by xs4all to subscribers, but is also available separately. NAS systems from, for example, Synology also support the DynDNS protocol. Accessing the network when no fixed internet connection is available? Take a look at the Teltonika 4G router with DynDNS support.

As soon as the device determines that the external IP address has been changed, it will pass this on to the provider using the dynamic DNS protocol. The provider then transfers the received IP address to the DNS servers for the relevant (sub-)domain. The rest of the internet will also start using the new IP address.

Hosting website and email on your home internet connection

The combination of a domain name, a free domain parking package, bHosted DynDNS and your own server or NAS system (e.g. a Synology DiskStation) makes it possible to host the website and/or email for your domain name on your own internet connection.

If only a limited number of visitors are expected on your website and the speed of the website is not a main priority, then this is an excellent solution. Especially if you are not dependent on your email for business operations and are handy with computers yourself, then a great mail server can be installed on the mentioned NAS systems. You then keep the hosting under your own control.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Dynamic DNS or DynDNS?

Dynamic DNS, also known as DynDNS or DDNS, is a technique that automatically keeps a domain name or subdomain pointing to the current IP address of your internet connection. This is useful when your provider uses a dynamic IP address that can change. With Dynamic DNS you can, for example, make a NAS, home server, VPN server, security camera, or router accessible via a fixed name such as nas.yourdomain.com. Typically, an A record or AAAA record is automatically updated as soon as your IP address changes.

How does Dynamic DNS work with a dynamic IP address?

Dynamic DNS works with an update client on your router, NAS, server, or computer. This client regularly checks the external IP address of your internet connection. If the IP address changes, the client automatically sends an update to the DNS provider. The provider then updates the DNS record for your domain name or subdomain. With a short TTL, this change can become active quickly, so your service remains reachable via the same hostname.

When do I need Dynamic DNS?

You need Dynamic DNS when you want to connect to a device or service on your own network from outside, while you do not have a static IP address. Think of access to a Synology NAS, home server, VPN, remote desktop, security camera, home automation, or test environment. Dynamic DNS prevents you from having to manually update DNS records when your IP address changes. Note: Dynamic DNS does not open ports and does not replace proper security or firewall settings.

Can I use Dynamic DNS for my NAS, home server, or VPN?

Yes, Dynamic DNS is very suitable for a NAS, home server, or VPN server. You can have a subdomain such as nas.yourdomain.com, server.yourdomain.com, or vpn.yourdomain.com automatically point to your current IP address. Many routers and devices, such as FRITZ!Box, Synology NAS systems, Teltonika routers, and Linux servers, support Dynamic DNS through built-in settings or via an update script.

Do I still need a static IP address with Dynamic DNS?

No, in most cases you do not need a static IP address with Dynamic DNS. Dynamic DNS is specifically designed for connections with a dynamic IP address. As soon as your provider changes your IP address, your DNS record is automatically updated. For applications such as a NAS, VPN, or home server, this is often a practical alternative to a static IP address. However, if your provider uses CGNAT, your network may not be directly reachable from the outside, even with Dynamic DNS.

Can I use Dynamic DNS with my own domain name or subdomain?

Yes, Dynamic DNS can be used with your own domain name or with a subdomain. Instead of a generic DynDNS hostname, you can use, for example, nas.yourdomain.com, vpn.yourdomain.com, or home.yourdomain.com. This is more professional, easier to remember, and better suited for business or personal use. The domain name must use DNS servers that support Dynamic DNS updates.

Free DynDNS with domain name

At bHosted, the use of the Dynamic DNS service is free with every domain name that is registered with bHosted and uses the bHosted DNS servers.

In combination with the free domain parking package you only pay the annual domain registration costs.

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