Connecting to a gadget via a local network without physically linking
Connecting to a gadget via a local network without physically linking
I’m still figuring out the best way to describe what you need. You mentioned having two separate internet connections—one for your home network and another for your self-hosted servers—and you’re looking for a setup where both can be accessed seamlessly from any device, regardless of which network it is connected to. Right now, you can switch between them manually, but you want a more unified experience so that devices on one network can communicate with those on the other without extra steps. You’re also interested in having routers or modems talk to each other automatically, making it simple to manage access across all your networks from a single interface. This would be useful for both personal use and managing servers efficiently. I’m not sure if there’s an existing standard term for this, but you might want to explore networking solutions like VLANs, wireless bridging, or a unified management platform. If you’d like, I can suggest some tools or configurations that could help achieve this goal. Let me know how you’d like to proceed!
Choose one use and it functions immediately—no extra steps needed per device, avoiding VPN requirements.
The issue lies in the fact that they are both standard consumer routers or modems provided by ISPs. One uses DSL, the other cable. Here are some specific models: ZTE ZXHN H168N Cisco EPC3925. It might be worth considering whether purchasing additional equipment is necessary, particularly if it's costly. Currently, you can manage everything with just Wi-Fi on your phone and other devices connected to both networks via your PC.
consider getting a single router where both ISP connections are plugged in—it's the better option.
We're considering the type of bandwidth in question. Pfsense would be suitable, whether deployed on a virtual machine, an x86 computer, or purchased as a ready-made device from Netgate. Other router operating systems such as OPNsense, Untangle, and similar platforms should also function here.
The setup looks moderate. I plan to experiment with pfSense, but it seems I’ll need at least three Ethernet ports on the server—two for incoming internet traffic and one for outgoing. Or maybe just two are enough since the third isn’t essential? I’m trying to keep things affordable or even free, as most options in my area are either unavailable or costly.
Do you own a managed switch? You could use a single port on your server with VLANs, or three ports otherwise. Currently, there isn’t a completely free option with the equipment you have.