Using a Dynamic DNS could be very beneficial for many people. Simply this DNS service is an automatic method for refreshing the new IP addresses. A static IP address might be very pricey. So let’s explain a little bit more about Dynamic DNS and what are the benefits of using it.
Dynamic DNS explained.
Dynamic Domain Name System is also called DDNS or Dynamic DNS.
The standard DNS links domain names to IP addresses through A or AAAA DNS records. The advantage of having Dynamic DNS is that it automatically updates and changes the host’s IP address. Even if its IP address changes, the visitors can reach it.
Dynamic DNS is a simple to use service. It lets you reach your hosted services easily when your ISP changes your IP address. For example, you can have a web hosting server, mail server, database server, or use your home network for CCTV cameras with DDNS.
Why would the ISP change your IP address? The truth is that it is easier to administrate the network that way. The IP addresses are leased to the clients for a particular amount of time. This task is assigned to a DHCP server, which the ISP relies typically on. So when that limited time finishes, customers will receive a new IP address.
The Dynamic DNS is an easy-to-use and easy to set up solution. It is usually free and serves nearly every scenario.
How does Dynamic DNS work?
If you want to implement DDNS, you have to sign up with a Dynamic DNS provider. After that, you have to install their software on the host computer. It applies to that exact computer that is managed as the server, like a web server or a file server.
The software watches the dynamic IP address for changes. When it detects a difference in the address, it reaches the DDNS service to update your account with the new IP address.
The DDNS software has to be constantly running and able to identify a change in the IP address. Thus the DDNS name you have associated with your account will proceed to direct clients to the host server despite the fact that the IPs could change a severe number of times.
If you have files that you want to be able to access no matter at what location you are, a Dynamic DNS service becomes a requirement. Also, another case would be if you want to host your website from home, you like to manage your home computer network from a distance, you like to remote into your computer when you are away, or whatever other similar reason.
A Dynamic DNS service is unnecessary for networks with static IP addresses. After the IP address is initially told the first time, the domain name doesn’t need to ask a second time. The reason is simple – static IP addresses don’t change.
Benefits from using it
Holds you online. It will decrease downtime by auto-update the IP addresses. So, the devices or services will still be available through the net.
Easy-to-use. You need to set it up once. For example, for IP cameras for monitoring. You will have to set up your router by going to settings and putting the user and the password for your Dynamic DNS service.
More affordable than static IPs. It will be much cheaper to pay for just one DDNS service if you have several devices. To pay for every static IP address could be pricey.