Configuring DDNS with UniFi

If you are looking for remote access to UniFi networks without a static IP address, you can configure Dynamic DNS (DDNS). It dynamically updates DNS records when your network's IP address changes, which is common with most residential and small business internet connections.

In this guide, I'll try to give a detailed look at why DDNS is important, how it works with UniFi systems, and a step-by-step approach to setting it up.

Let's go!

Table of Contents

• Understanding DDNS
• Benefits of DDNS for UniFi
• How DDNS works with UniFi
• Step-by-Step configuration of DDNS on UniFi
  • Step 1: Choose a DDNS provider
  • Step 2: Register with the DDNS provider
  • Step 3: Configure DDNS in UniFi Controller
  • Step 4: Set Up Firewall and Security Settings
  • Step 5: Test your configuration
• Conclusion

Understanding DDNS

DDNS helps maintain a consistent domain name even when the IP address changes. This is useful for hosting servers, remote desktop applications, or accessing surveillance systems remotely.

Normally, without DDNS, the IP changes would require manual DNS updates to restore access (an annoying task for dynamic IP environments).

Benefits of DDNS for UniFi

• Remote access: DDNS allows you to connect to your network remotely without having to track changing IP addresses.
• Cost-effective: Eliminates the need for expensive static IP addresses from internet service providers.
• Ease of use: Once set up, DDNS requires little to no maintenance.

How DDNS works with UniFi

UniFi can integrate with several DDNS providers to make sure that your device automatically updates the DNS record when its IP address changes. This integration smooths the process, making remote network management more straightforward.

Step-by-Step configuration of DDNS on UniFi

Setting up DDNS on a UniFi system involves selecting a DDNS provider. Then configuring the service on your UniFi device and lastly, making sure your network is set up for secure remote access.

Step 1: Choose a DDNS provider

First, select a DDNS service provider. Many providers offer free and paid services, including No-IP, DynDNS, and DuckDNS. Your choice might depend on the features, such as update frequency, domain choices, and cost.

Step 2: Register with the DDNS provider

Create an account with your chosen DDNS provider. During registration, you will select a domain name offered by the provider. This domain name will be used to access your network.

Step 3: Configure DDNS in UniFi Controller

Once you have your domain and credentials from the DDNS provider, log into your UniFi Controller to set up the DDNS service:

1. Access the UniFi Controller: Open the UniFi Controller interface and log in.
2. Navigate to settings: Go to the settings section by clicking on the gear icon.
3. Configure the network: Select the network associated with your WAN (usually your internet connection).
4. Find DDNS settings: Under the WAN settings, look for the Dynamic DNS section.
5. Enter DDNS details:
   • Service: Select your DDNS provider from the dropdown list.
   • Hostname: Enter the domain name you registered with the DDNS service.
   • Username: Input the username or email associated with your DDNS account.
   • Password: Provide the password for your DDNS account.
   • Server: If your provider is not listed, you may need to enter the server URL for the DDNS service manually.
6. Save and Apply Changes: After entering your details, save the settings. The UniFi device will now update the DDNS provider with the current WAN IP address.

Step 4: Set Up Firewall and Security Settings

For secure remote access:

• Configure firewall rules: Set up rules that only allow access to necessary ports and services.
• Use secure VPN: For the best security, set up a VPN on your UniFi device to access your network remotely instead of opening ports directly to the internet.

Step 5: Test your configuration

After setting up DDNS and security measures:

• Test Access: Try accessing your network using the new DDNS domain name from a device not connected to your local network.
• Monitor Logs: Check the UniFi logs to ensure that there are no errors in the DDNS update process.

Conclusion

Having DDNS improves your ability to access your network reliably and securely from anywhere in the world. For those looking for further assistance or managed network solutions, check out UniHosted. We help maintain and optimize your UniFi setup. Especially, if you are an MSP or IT-service business looking for secure, flexible and scalable network deployments, this is something for you.

Feel free to give us a spin! Additionally, I'm happy to walk you through personally. You can schedule a call with me (Founder of UniHosted) here.