An email server, an FTP server, even a small personal website. They are projects that sooner or later have crossed our minds, but they face a basic limitation: the lack of a fixed IP address so that remote access is stable and reliable.
The problem is that the position of connectivity providers is divided between not offering any, or limiting their availability to business plans. The only free alternative to a fixed IP is to cheat with a dynamic DNS service.
If you need to access your personal files remotely, I imagine that some of the cloud storage services should fit your needs, but if the idea of uploading that data to a service controlled by third parties makes you uncomfortable, then maybe it's better to set up a small web server or an FTP. There are also cases like accessing security IP cameras. Many models come with their own official applications, however, any configuration that exceeds that sandbox requires a bit of creativity.
Now, these projects and others like them would be much simpler with a fixed IP address. A simple power outage could force a dynamic IP change in our connection, and it's quite normal to switch from one IP to another different one every 24 hours. If the number changes, remote access to that project at home would be complicated, or directly impossible. IPv6 promises an IP address for every human being in the world, and more but we are still far from that, and if you want a normal IP, you are tied to the good or bad will of your provider. Getting a fixed IP is a matter of a phone call or an extra payment at the end of the month, although there are also cases where we only receive an outright no as an answer.
How to get a fixed IP... almost
The most popular solution to get the functionality of a fixed IP is with a free dynamic DNS service. In relaxed terms, what this service does is assign a static domain to a computer or server connected through a dynamic IP. Every time the IP address changes, the service takes care of updating all relevant data and maintaining the connection to our hypothetical home server. The question is: which of those services are worth it?
FreeDNS Afraid
Some of the many applications for FreeDNS Afraid.
One of the most important reasons to recommend FreeDNS Afraid (besides the zero cost) is the compatibility with DD-WRT. Even if the firmware edition that your router uses is old, it's most likely that within the menu dedicated to dynamic DNS there will be a reference to FreeDNS Afraid. The router itself connects to the service, simplifying the process. The official FreeDNS site offers not one, but two tutorials for DD-WRT.
NO-IP
Another very interesting free option, but with an extra step: you will need to renew all links every 30 days manually. NO-IP enjoys some popularity thanks to Minecraft enthusiasts, who have created a huge number of multiplayer servers. NO-IP not only approves this use, but added a tutorial in its help section. There are also several dedicated videos on YouTube about it.
I hope this helps you get a fixed IP, or at least, its main benefits. Other options? Many users rely on their VPN providers, which in some cases can act as fixed IP addresses (NordVPN comes to mind). The rest reduces to asking. Moreover, if you have come this far and already have experience with dynamic DNS services, why not share it in a comment?
