Retrieve and move data to the server without port redirection
Retrieve and move data to the server without port redirection
Recently I got a refurbished Dell workstation and wanted to use it as a server. I faced some challenges. The server isn’t on my home network—it’s in a nearby warehouse that requires its own internet connection. Initially, I tried remote access, but realized I had to open specific ports on my network to reach the server. Other applications also needed additional ports, which made setting up remote access complicated. I found out that my current 4G router blocks port forwarding. I’m curious if there’s a way to run an FTP server without forwarding ports, and I’d like to use Windows tools to connect to it for easier file transfers and viewing. Please let me know if you have any suggestions or details.
Clarify your setup details. Understanding these aspects will help shape the right approach for your NAS integration. What specific concerns drive your choice of remote access method?
You don’t require any special equipment for your home internet connection. However, you must establish a link from the internet to your server. By default, regular users receive a changing IP address, which can affect your server’s location. This issue can be resolved using DDNS services such as DuckDNS, installed on your server and updating the IP periodically. Another scenario is when your network goes through a proxy, preventing you from seeing a public IP. You lose control over this intermediary server, and even with multiple open ports on your router, data won’t pass through. Many internet service providers provide public IP addresses for a small fee, allowing you to host freely. If your provider doesn’t offer this, a VPN might be a viable option. With a standard IP address, both networks can connect and share information. You don’t need to pay for popular public VPNs; you could rent a VPS and set up your own VPN server. Of course, self-hosting becomes less appealing once you depend on these solutions. My understanding of networking is limited; perhaps someone else has a better approach?
It's mainly the workstation linked to the router within the network. Having a remote control would be useful so you don't have to visit the warehouse to access the machine. I thought FTP was a good choice since it's one of the options listed when setting up a network folder on Windows, and it's the method I've most often heard about.