You may have scratched your head over how to remotely access a router. Maybe you want to check on your home network when traveling.
Well, it is easy! Most modern routers now have a remote access feature that enables you to manage and configure them from anywhere.
Not many people know this feature, but some routers have had this capability long enough.
This insider blog will take you through the process of setting up remote router access and how to configure dynamic DNS.
How to Access Your Router Remotely
Accessing your router remotely doesn’t come with a lot of demands. It would be best to simply have a browser and good internet access.
Another great option is to use a third-party app such as Teamviewer. But come to think of it. This would mean always leaving the host device on and connected to the internet.
The app will also require installation, consuming more time than just typing your credentials.
That said, accessing the router remotely via a web browser is the easiest option. You achieve this through two main processes:
- Setting up your router remote access
- Setting up Dynamic DNS
Set Up Your Router Remote Access
The steps may differ slightly depending on whether you want to access the router within or outside your network.
Remotely Accessing the Router Within the Network
To access your router from within the network, simply type in your router gateway address (private IP address).
Depending on the router, you may find these addresses on router documentation or directly printed on the router.
Using ipconfig command in Windows can also help you find the router gateway. It is a process, so you should opt for it only when the first two don’t work.
That said, launching the ipconfig command is simple. Simply press Win + R, then type cmd, which will prompt you to execute the command. An IP address will appear next to the default gateway.
Remotely Access Your Router From Outside Your Network
Accessing your router from outside your network is equally simple. The IP address you will type into the browser is an external public IP that your internet service provider (ISP) offers.
Besides, you will require a specific device with an open port to connect to.
You start by configuring your router for remote access. You can do that through these simple steps:
- Connect to the router through the browser
- Go to your router settings. Find something related to the remote connection and toggle it on. The remote access setting may vary depending on your router.
- At this point, you can change the port number, which is 8080 by default.
- Once done, save the settings.
After configuring your router, the next thing is to insert the public IP address and port number in the web browser.
Setup Dynamic DNS
Now you have successfully launched remote access on your router and can access it from anywhere.
However, remember you have a dynamic public IP address that changes in the next few days.
Your ISP will assign your router a new public IP address whenever this happens, so you need to prevent it.
Purchasing a static IP from your internet service provider would be the best way to solve this issue.
However, that may not be expensive for an individual only seeking to remotely manage his router.
Setting up a dynamic DNS is a better option. This way, you will send your home network communication to a fixed DDNS server, which forwards the information dynamic IP.
The better if you are lucky enough to have a router with a built-in DDNS configuration.
However, such routers may require you to sign up for the DDNS services with a subscription fee.
Why You May Want to Remotely Access Your Router
There are several reasons you may want to remotely access your home router. The most commonly reported benefit of accessing your router remotely is monitoring your kids’ internet connections while you are away from home.
However, you can perform several other tasks with this feature, some of which we discussed below.
Resetting Your Router Network
Sometimes, your Wi-Fi network may experience outages. In such cases, a reset will be necessary to stabilize your connection and keep the functionality of your network rolling again.
Thanks to the remote access feature, you don’t have to be home to do this.
Resetting Your Login Details
There can be several reasons you may want to change your network login details. These reasons revolve around keeping your connection secure.
You can log into your router remotely through the PC web and access your credentials.
Troubleshoot Your WiFi Network
You can troubleshoot your network with this feature. When network hiccups arise, you don’t have to be home to handle them or call your expensive technician to attend to them. An elderly or a friend reporting to you that they have connectivity issues. Thanks to the remote access feature, you can check and troubleshoot it from wherever you are.
Access Your Home Devices
Devices connected to your router using an Ethernet port, such as laptops and printers, are accessible remotely. You will be able to control them from wherever you are.
Ethernet network cable socket
Final Thought
Your router remote feature makes managing your router or other people’s routers convenient. You don’t have to be at home to handle every task.
You can reset your router network, log in, and troubleshoot some issues remotely. And you can also monitor your kids’ internet activities and check if a family member is at home.
We have shown you how to set up the access and DDNS. If you strictly follow our step-by-step guide, you are sure to access your router from anywhere via the internet.