Manually updating DNS records isn’t the most productive use of your time, which is why Dynamic DNS Providers have developed a service that automatically updates your hostname each time your IP address changes.
If you want to automatically update DNS records then a dynamic DNS is worth trying out.
The top DDNS providers will enable you to get away from the limitations of a static IP address and host everything from a website to a VPN or CCTV service from a single device.
Here is our list of the best dynamic DNS providers:
- Dynu EDITOR’S CHOICE Our top pick for free dynamic DNS providers. Free dynamic DNS service with a control panel, third-level domain name support, top-level domain name support, global servers, and more.
- FreeDNS Free Dynamic DNS tool designed for domain and subdomain hosting with web forwarding and URL cloaking.
- ChangeIP Free and paid options from this hosting service that will give you an IP mapping to a subdomain on their system or, give you Dynamic DNS to any domain for a fee.
- Securepoint DynDNS Dynamic DNS provider that supports up to five hosts free, with IPv6, and more (only for existing Securepoint customers).
- YDNS Free DNS hosting service with unlimited hosts per user, DNSSEC2 support, mail configurations, and more.
- Duck DNS Free dynamic DNS service with periodic updates, scriptable updates, a 256-bit signed SSL certificate, and more.
- No-IP Free DDNS with port forwarding, URL forwarding, 100% uptime, email support, phone support, and more.
- EuroDynDNS Free dynamic DNS tool with a simple software client and agent access that’s compatible with multiple routers.
- ClouDNS DNS and DDNS solution provider with IPv4 support, AAAA IPv6 support, notifications, and more.
- DNS Max Managed DNS provider with a Dynamic DNS service, URL forwarding, DNS statistics, reports, and more.
The best Dynamic DNS providers
The concept of serving outsiders from an IP address that is not fixed is relatively new. Therefore, this is a market in which new entrants can easily make an impression. However, without relying on highly-respected brand names, it is time-consuming working out which dynamic DNS service is going to be reputable.
Our methodology for selecting a dynamic DNS solution for your business
We reviewed the market for dynamic DNS systems and analyzed services based on the following criteria:
- A service that masks the real IP address of your servers
- Alternatively, a DNS updater that is fast enough to keep up with addressing changes on your network
- Support for email server addressing
- A reliable service with constant availability
- IPv6 support
- A free system or a free trial to enable access to the service for assessment without any payment
- A good deal from a free tool that won’t let you down or a paid tool that is worth the money
With these selection criteria in mind, we looked for dynamic DNS providers that will keep your Web services available to the public. Competence and availability are bigger issues than price. Although free services are always nice, they cost you money if they block your opportunity to make sales. So, where we include free options, they are very good services that compete well with the paid systems.
1. Dynu
Dynu is a free dynamic DNS service that you can use to change your domain name automatically. With Dynu, you can control domain names through the DNS client’s lightweight control panel. The client monitors your computer’s IP address and sends information back to Dynu’s servers regularly so you have a record of your latest IP address.
Key Features:
- Control panel
- Port 80 redirection
- Third-level domain names
- Top-level domain names
- Global name servers
- 100% uptime
Why do we recommend it?
Dynu is completely free of charge – there isn’t a paid edition. With this service, you won’t get caught with charges for hidden extras and you can rely on 100 percent uptime for the dynamic DNS. Choose a DNS server near you for optimum response times.
The solution supports third-level domain names and top-level domain names so you can choose whether you want “Dynu” featured in your custom URL or not. When choosing your domain name you can choose from name servers located across the globe. Locations include the US, Japan, Australia, Singapore, Netherlands, Germany, and the UK.
Router support enables you to update your IP address with popular routers like DD-WRT, Huawei HG533, ZyWall USG 50, and more. If your router isn’t supported you can use an IP update client software instead.
Dynu is ideal for enterprise users that need a DDNS with global coverage, support, and 100% uptime. It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can sign up for free.
Who is it recommended for?
Dynu is recommended for any individual or business that needs to provide a static Web identity despite a frequently changing IP address. As such, it is ideal for home users that get allocated temporary IP addresses by their ISPs but want to accept incoming traffic either for a file server or a games server. Home users can also cut out the expense of buying a domain name by using a free subdomain on Dynu.com
Pros:
- Completely free service
- Utilizes a simple lightweight control panel
- Tracks IP addresses assigned for each device
- Offers multiple servers around the world for fast resolution
- Compatible with a large number of devices
Cons:
- Built for network professionals in a business environment, not the best option for home users
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Dynu is our preferred recommendation for a dynamic DNS provider because its service is very easy to set up and use. This service offers global coverage and the support desk is on-hand to help around the clock. This is a very good service for businesses that want a reliable system that won’t hold up Web connections. Best of all, the Dynu service is completely free of charge.
OS: Cloud-based
2. FreeDNS (Afraid.org)
FreeDNS is a free dynamic DNS tool that can be used for subdomain and domain hosting. With FreeDNS you can manage your hostname with five free hostnames that work in the shared domain registry, which includes 53,525 domains. Whenever your IP changes the software automatically updates your information. It supports an unlimited number of domains per account, making it scalable for larger organizations.
Key Features:
- Free dynamic DNS tool
- IPv6 DNS hosting
- 5 free hostnames
- 53,525 other domains in the shared domain testify
- Web forwarding
- URL cloaking
Why do we recommend it?
FreeDNS provides web forwarding and port forwarding, which means that you don’t have to miss out on traffic generated by your existing publicity if, for some reason, you need to change your URL. This tool is free to use and it has millions of users, which means that it must be a reliable service.
The Web Forward system enables you to forward hosts to any existing URL on the internet. Similarly, a URL cloaking feature enables you to hide the real URL from the address bar. The result is greater anonymity online so that none of your information is needlessly disclosed to other entities.
Entering a domain on afraid.org grants you access to extra administrative features. For example, you can approve or block others from using hosts on your domain or allow and deny AXFR’s. Using these features bolsters your security reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access to your information.
FreeDNS is an excellent low-cost solution for enterprises that require a basic dynamic DNS solution. The software is available as a free version or you can upload to premium versions as well. Premium versions start at $60 (£46.23) per year for up to 50 subdomains and unlimited support. Clients are available for Windows and UNIX. You can sign up here.
Who is it recommended for?
FreeDNS is very similar to Dynu, although this service does offer a paid plan. The vast majority of FreeDNS users are on the free plan, which shows that the service is sufficient and you probably won’t need to upgrade.
Pros:
- Offers a free and paid version
- Supports five hostnames per shared registry
- Offers URL cloaking for improved privacy
- Can run on both Windows and Unix platforms
Cons:
- Interface feels outdated
- Hard to find certain options and menus
3. ChangeIP
ChangeIP offers two levels of dynamic DNS solution. The first of these is free and it provides a subdomain on a domain that you choose from a long list. The domain options are either neutral and barely noticeable, such as ns01.biz, or a bit embarrassing, such as justdied.com. The free option is probably acceptable for private individuals that want to set up a home games server, but it isn’t really suitable for a business. Fortunately, the second option is very cheap and it is worth considering.
Key Features:
- Free option available
- Map to your own domain
- Unlimited redirects
- Traffic monitoring
Why do we recommend it?
ChangeIP is a very reliable dynamic DNS service that has been in operation for more than 20 years. The free version of this service doesn’t allow you to use your own domain name – you would have to upgrade to the paid version for that.
ChangeIP isn’t a startup, the business has been operating since 1999 and offers a range of hosting services, not just DNS systems. It’s servers are always up. This is a very important factor to consider because the company has more services to worry about if its system ever crashed.
The Premium Dynamic DNS service lets you keep your own domain name and offload all of the work to keep that available while your IP address keeps changing. The ability to have your own domain rather than a subdomain on a widely-used domain is worth the $6 (£4.53) that this plan costs.
Who is it recommended for?
The recommended audience for Change IP is split between private users who don’t mind getting a subdomain with the free service and large organizations who are prepared to pay to get their own domain name fixed. Smaller businesses who don’t want to pay for a dynamic DNS but do want to use their own domain names would be better off with Dynu.
Pros:
- A very reliable service that is constantly monitored by technicians
- Automatic dynamic DNS switching that is performed alongside the DNS registration for all of ChangeIP’s other services
- A console that offers traffic monitoring
Cons:
- Reliance on the system could ruin your business if ChangeIP ever went bust
- No mention of IPv6 capabilities
4. Securepoint DynDNS
Securepoint DynDNS is a dynamic DNS provider that supports up to five hosts free. Securepoint DynDNS also supports IPv6, so that you don’t need to remember long IP addresses. The DNS service uses a token system for security so the host requires an update token to interact with Dynamic DNS configurations.
Key Features:
- Create five hosts free
- 10 domains available
- IPv6 support
- Update token password
Why do we recommend it?
Securepoint is a proxy-based cybersecurity solutions provider and its DynDNS service helps forward filtered traffic to a business that is masked behind the Securepoint cloud-based firewall. This is a free service but only for clients of Securepoint security services.
However, it is important to note that only Securepoint customers can sign up for the DDNS. As a result, Securepoint DynDNS is only suitable for current Securepoint customers. You can register for free.
Who is it recommended for?
You have to already be using one of Securepoint’s cybersecurity services to use this dynamic DNS service. It helps mask your true IP address and confounds hackers by directing all of your Web traffic through the Securepoint servers.
Pros:
- Offers five hosts for free
- Supports IPv6 addresses – good option for larger networks using both protocols
- Uses token-based security for enhanced protection
Cons:
- Only available for Securepoint customers
5. YDNS
YDNS is a free DNS hosting service that provides you with unlimited hosts per user. With YDNS you can create a dynamic DNS for hosts to transform a home network into a permanent hostname. There is also DNSSEC2 support so you can make DNS lookup processes more secure.
Key Features:
- Unlimited hosts per user
- DNSSEC2 support
- API
- Web interface
Why do we recommend it?
YDNS is a close competitor to Dynu and could easily have been our top choice. The interface for this system is very easy to use and so Web entrepreneurs could easily manage the setup process themselves. You can host your own domain on the YDNS system to give your public face a professional look while relying on free services behind the scenes.
You can manage your domain through the web interface or an API. When managing domains you can create mail configurations for domains with G-Suite users having the option to automatically configure MX records for domain zones. There is also an updater you can download to update multiple hosts at once.
YDNS is suitable for home users that need an easy to use DNS service with the scalability to support multiple hosts for free. You can sign up for the software for free.
Who is it recommended for?
Although the unlimited hosts offer of YDNS would be appealing to large businesses and service providers, the YDNS website Home page stresses its use for home users (that isn’t enforced). It is a completely free service with no paid edition.
Pros:
- Free unlimited hosts per user, competitive with other tools
- Better interface than most other DNS providers
- Can update multiple hosts at once, ideal for MSPs and other companies that host a large number of domains
Cons:
- Lacks in-depth reporting capabilities or auditing for domains that require uptime SLAs
6. Duck DNS
Duck DNS is a free dynamic DNS service you can use to assign DNSs to a chosen IP. The service is hosted on AWS and periodically updates domain names every five minutes. Users have the option to select unique domain names to personalize the service.
Key Features:
- Hosted on AWS
- Update domain name every five minutes
- Protected with 256-bit SSL certificate
- Script IP updates
Why do we recommend it?
As with most of the tools on this list, Duck DNS is a completely free service with no paid version. This is a good choice for the Web Masters of small, self-hosted websites for clubs and associations, or home users that want to run a games server with a fixed domain.
You can script IP updates by using HTTPS and HTTP scripts. For example, you can use HTTPS get to update your domain. It’s important to note that the service can’t detect IPv6 addresses. Duck DNS is protected by a 256-bit signed SSL certificate to ensure that your information stays secure.
Duck DNS is a formidable Dynamic DNS provider for enterprises and individuals who want basic IP address updates as part of a free tool. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can install the software for free and they accept donations, even in Bitcoin.
Who is it recommended for?
Duck DNS is a solution for home users or club websites because it only offers subdomains and won’t host your own domain name. That rules out its use by businesses. The setup for this service is a little technical and so people with rudimentary Web server understanding would be able to use it.
Pros:
- Hosted on AWS, making it accessible from practically anywhere in the world
- IP updates can be scripted over HTTPS, allowing for changes to be made in bulk
- Available for Window, Linux, and Mac, giving it more flexibility than competing products
Cons:
- Cannot yet support IPV6
7. No-IP
No-IP is a free DDNS that comes with port and URL forwarding. No-IP enables you to create hostnames so you can connect to your network or device easily. The software comes with a free dynamic update client that monitors IP changes on your network to ensure your information stays up-to-date.
Key Features:
- Port forwarding
- URL forwarding
- Phone support (paid version)
- 100% uptime (paid version)
Why do we recommend it?
No-IP offers three levels of service that makes it appealing to a large audience. The lowest plan is free and it would only be suitable for individuals who want to get remote access to their home devices. The next plan up is paid but also caters to home users. The top plan is a corporate service that lets you use your own domain.
If you upgrade to a paid version, then you can benefit from a 100% uptime guarantee, which helps make sure that your DDNS is available when you need it. You also have access to technical support by phone and email so you can seek out guidance whenever you get stuck.
No-IP is suitable for enterprises looking to upgrade to a premium service. The free version supports three hostnames and limited domains with a confirmation once every 30 days. Paid versions start at $24.95 (£19.23) for the Enhanced Dynamic DNS package with over 25 hostnames and no host expiration. You can sign up for free.
Who is it recommended for?
Home users and clubs could get by with the free service. However, the web and port forwarding of the top paid version is ideal for startups that want to evolve from their use of free systems, such as Gmail for email and a free WordPress.com account for a site but put a unique domain name on the business.
Pros:
- Makes port and URL forwarding simple, even for non-technical users
- Paid version supports a 100% uptime guarantee, ideal for MSPs and enterprise environments
- Free version offers three hostnames, good for homes users
Cons:
- A steep learning curve if you’re not familiar with DNS settings
8. EuroDynDNS
EuroDynDNS is a dynamic DNS provider that allows you to assign domain names to your computer. EuroDynDNS comes with an easy to use client that allows you to view a list of Active Dynamic Domains, your IP address, and when it was last updated. Agent access allows you to register domain names and grant access to your customers.
Key Features:
- Assign domain names to dynamic IP addresses
- View when IP last updated
- Software client
- DNS compatible with routers
Why do we recommend it?
EuroDynDNS from EuroDNS is a service that is aimed at people who one to turn a single desktop computer into a server that gets access requests from across the internet. This service requires an agent to be installed on the computer that is to be accessible. The agent is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
You can also configure the service for your router by conducting a client update. Developers have the option to create their own client updates, although it’s important to note that EuroDynDNS doesn’t currently support this service.
EuroDynDNS is recommended for users who require a simple DDNS solution without any advanced features. Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Download the software free.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is for use by private individuals and sole trader businesses to get access to files on a home computer while out and about. One problem with this scenario is that probably, a cloud-based file synching service, such as Google Drive or Microsoft 365’s OneDrive would perform this task with greater ease.
Pros:
- Client makes implementing DNS changes easier than most tools
- Developer support allows client updates to be pushed out in bulk
- Available for multiple platforms, Windows, Linux, and Mac
Cons:
- Simplified settings may be limiting for more technical users
9. ClouDNS
ClouDNS is a DNS and DDNS solution provider that can create URLs for A IPv4, and AAAA IPv6 records. With ClouDNS you can sign in to your user account through the website, go to the dashboard and select the DNS zone you want to configure a DDNS. Notifications let you know whenever A or AAAA records change.
Key Features:
- A IPv4 support
- AAAA IPv6 support
- Notifications
- Scripts compatible with task manager
Why do we recommend it?
ClouDNS is an interesting system that allows scheduled changes to DNS records. This means that you could provide a shifting base for round-the-clock attended services by adjusting the allocation of a domain to a different office as the working hours in different countries progress.
On Windows, you can go to the Dynamic URL solution to copy and paste Perl, Python, and PHP scripts to use with Task Scheduler when you schedule a new task. Using Task Scheduler allows you to select the time period for DNS updates so that your records stay up-to-date as regularly as you require.
ClouDNS is an excellent solution for companies that want a dynamic DNS included with other DNS hosting options. The Free Forever package supports four Unicast DNS servers, 50 DNS records, and 500,000 queries per month. Paid versions start at $2.95 (£2.27) per month for the Premium DNS version with DNS failover, DNSSEC, and more. It is available for Windows, Linux, and macOS. You can sign up for a free account.
Who is it recommended for?
A small association of support technicians could take over the management and support of a service by deploying this tool. You could allocate a single domain to different offices to enable technicians in different time zones to switch ownership at different times of the day.
Pros:
- Better user interface than most DNS providers
- Supports IPv6 addressing
- Offers scripting capabilities to keep records updated
- Features a ‘free forever package’ as well as paid options
Cons:
- Scripting is only compatible with Task Manager in Windows
10. DNS Max
DNS Max is a managed DNS service with a dynamic DNS upgrade that allows you to create DNS records through a web-based control panel. DNS Max supports a range of records including IPv4 A, IPv6 AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, SRV, and SPF. You also have the option to use your own domain name without incurring additional charges.
Key Features:
- Control panel
- Supports A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, SRV, SPF records
- Use your own domain name
- URL forwarding
- DNS Statistics
Why do we recommend it?
DNS Max has no free tier. It is a major managed DNS service for large corporations. The system will host your domain, so you don’t have to put up with a subdomain on the DNS service’s URL.
Advanced features include URL forwarding and DNS statistics. With URL forwarding you can forward hostnames to a different URL. DNS statistics provide you with reporting on DNS records complete with graphs to help you understand what’s going on.
DNS Max is worth researching for companies looking for a DNS solution with URL forwarding and reporting capabilities. Business Plans start at $36 (£27.74) per year with 25 DNS records and 20,000 queries per month.
Who is it recommended for?
This is the only purely big business solution on this list. Home users wouldn’t be interested in this DNS service because it is expensive and large businesses that prize reliability over savings would opt for this dynamic DNS service.
Pros:
- Supports all records for both IPv4 and IPv6 networks
- Offers advanced features such as URL forwards
- DNS statistics offer a historical look at performance and usage
- Can support a high volume of queries, making it viable for larger companies
Cons:
- Some advanced features require more technical knowledge around networking and DNS to utilize
- The interface could be redesigned to be easier to navigate
Choosing a Dynamic DNS Provider
Out of the tools mentioned above, Dynu, Free DNS, and DynDNS Service are our top picks, as each tool offers additional features beyond the basic DDNS experience. However, before committing to installation or purchase we recommend researching multiple tools independently to find the best solution for your environment.
Dynamic DNS FAQs
Which AWS services can a startup use to build a dynamic DNS microservice?
There are a number of AWS services that you can use to create your own dynamic DNS microservice. The obvious choice is Amazon Route 53, which is a managed DNS service. You can also make a service request through amazon API Gateway to a process hosted on AWS Lambda, a serverless hosting system.
What dynamic DNS services work with Netgear?
For a dynamic DNS service to use with a Netgear router, try No-IP or FreeDNS.
Which free dynamic DNS services are available for EdgeRouter?
Ubiquiti Support and Help Center lists all of the dynamic DNS services that are compatible with its EdgeRouter. Those in the list that are free to use are:
- FreeDNS (Afraid.org)
- No-IP
- Sitelutions
- Zoneedit
