Let’s try setting up a server at home using existing broadband connection. This requires access to DSL modem provided. In this example, I’m using ZyXEL (MROTECK) DSL modem provided by Airtel.
First, access the DSL modem control panel. It’s accessible at https://192.168.1.1 or https://192.168.0.1 by default with password xxxxx. Once you’re inside the control panel you will get the following page where in you should select NAT option under “Advanced Setup“.
Following can be found at NAT page. We will edit the SUA only option which is selected by default:
Now, its time to enter the port of the server and the local ip of the system on which you’re running the server.
If I’m running web server, I will enter 80 as the port number in Start and End port No along with the system local ip. Once this is done, save and reboot the modem. Once the modem is back online, you can give your static ip to your users at the remote end to connect to your system via https:// over port 80.
If you don’t have a static ip, you can still find your current global ip by visiting the https://whatismyip.com in browser. But this ip will change as and when the DSL modem gets reset. So, you will have to keep updating your users with the global ip all the time.
This setup is useful when you want to help your friends in fixing their operating system, when you’re trying to setup a temporary server to provide a demo. If you’re internet connection is good enough you can even think of running a permanent web server or file server without any issues. Easy isn’t it? Enjoy!
