To begin with, let’s understand what a Dynamic DNS (DDNS or DynDNS) is. It is a system that associates domain names with IP addresses. This enables a consistent web address to be linked to an IP address that may change over time. This feature is particularly useful for home users because IP addresses are not always static.
If you wish to establish remote access to your PC or set up a home web server, utilizing a dynamic DNS is one of the simplest ways to accomplish this. Now, you may wonder about the best free dynamic DNS options and whether they are worth using. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know.
1.Dynu Dynu
provides an excellent dynamic DNS service that supports both top-level domains (using your own domain) and third-level domains (utilizing a subdomain on dynu.com). It works seamlessly with domains from any country. What sets Dynu apart is its user-friendly features, making it the top choice for free dynamic DNS service.
Dynu simplifies the setup process by offering a Dynu Client that runs in the background on your computer. This client automatically updates your IP address on Dynu whenever it changes, ensuring that your domain stays in sync without any manual intervention.
For enhanced account security, Dynu allows you to enable two-factor authentication through a TOTP app. If you prefer alternatives to Google Authenticator, you can explore other options available.
Free accounts on Dynu can have up to four subdomains. Upgrading to a paid account for $9.99 per year unlocks advanced features such as 500 subdomains, 500 web redirects, logging capabilities, 500 custom DNS records, DNSSEC, backup and restore functionality, and much more.
2.afraid.org
Don’t be deterred by the unconventional name, afraid.org offers a powerful and reliable free dynamic DNS service. In addition to dynamic DNS, they also provide other types of free hosting services, making them a versatile option.
With afraid.org, you get five free subdomains using their domain options. Furthermore, you can use an unlimited number of your own domains and have up to 20 subdomains for each. The account setup process is quick, and DNS pointing happens instantly. The service boasts a vast shared domain pool with over 30,000 domains to choose from. Additionally, they offer free URL redirection.
Premium accounts start at $60 per year and include an extra 50 subdomains, unlimited wildcard DNS, and three stealth flags to protect your domains from sharing mechanisms. Higher premium tiers ($120/year, $300/year, $600/year) provide even more subdomains, stealth flags, and professional branding options.
Accounts on afraid.org may be marked as dormant after a period of inactivity. However, users have the option to reactivate their accounts by logging in again.
3.DuckDNS
DuckDNS is a free dynamic DNS (DDNS) service hosted on Amazon’s AWS infrastructure. While its website may appear simple, it suits the purpose well since dynamic DNS is a straightforward service that doesn’t require extravagant features. In fact, DuckDNS is considered one of the best providers of free dynamic DNS.
The minimalist design of the website reflects DuckDNS’s singular focus. The service concentrates all its efforts on providing a reliable DDNS solution. It’s worth noting that DuckDNS is operated by just two software engineers, who bring extensive industry experience to the table.
One of DuckDNS’s strengths is its collection of written tutorials that guide users through the setup process on various platforms. Whether you’re using Windows, OS X, Linux, DD-WRT, Amazon EC2, or even the Raspberry Pi single-board computer, DuckDNS has you covered.
Each DuckDNS account can have up to five subdomains. Furthermore, the service prioritizes user privacy by minimizing data retention and storing essential information in a private database that will never be sold.
4.No-IP
No-IP has long been a major competitor to DynDNS in the free dynamic DNS market. When DynDNS ceased its free service, No-IP was poised to take the lead. However, over the past few years, it has gradually shifted towards being a premium service.
Free users of No-IP are allocated three subdomains from a limited selection of domain name options. These subdomains remain active as long as you confirm your activity every 30 days. To retain your hostname, simply click on the confirmation link sent to your email seven days before its expiration.
In case you miss the confirmation deadline, No-IP still allows you to confirm your hostname within seven days after expiration, avoiding the risk of losing it permanently.
No-IP provides additional features such as port forwarding and URL redirection, which can be advantageous depending on your specific needs. To assist users with Dynamic DNS configuration, No-IP offers a device configuration assistant. Furthermore, they provide a Dynamic Update Client that ensures your hostname is always updated with the latest IP address changes.
For $5.99 per month, you can upgrade to enjoy 25 subdomains across more than 80 domain name options, and you won’t need to confirm activity to maintain your subdomains. If you prefer to use your own domain, the $19.99 per month package is required, which also includes three DNS zones.
5.ClouDNS
When you visit the ClouDNS website, you’ll immediately notice their plan options. However, their free dynamic DNS service is definitely worth considering. It provides a secure dynamic DNS solution completely free of charge.
Creating an account with ClouDNS is quick and straightforward. Once logged in, the dashboard provides an organized view of domain names, DNS hosting, monitoring records, SSL certificates, and Google Workspace accounts. When it comes to DNS hosting, you have the flexibility to choose from available name servers with both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses.
As a free user, you can manage one DNS zone and add up to 50 DNS records. ClouDNS offers premium options with a 30-day trial period for their $2.95 per month, $4.95 per month, and $14.95 per month plans. They also provide discounted rates for multi-month and yearly subscriptions.
The pricing scales based on the number of DNS zones, records, and mail forwards you require. The mid-priced and highest priced premium plans offer unlimited DNS queries per month. If you have any questions or need assistance, ClouDNS offers 24/7 chat support for prompt help.
6.Dynv6
Among the various free DDNS services available, Dynv6 stands out for its straightforward functionality. Once you register and confirm your email, you can immediately start creating your own zones. Unlike other services, Dynv6 doesn’t provide detailed explanations or membership options upfront. Instead, it offers application and API instructions after you create a zone.
Dynv6 supports both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses and allows you to choose from six pre-available domains. Additionally, you have the option to add your delegated domain name to its nameservers.
If you have any follow-up questions, you can reach out in the community section of Dynv6, although note that it may include a mix of English and German discussions. If you need to familiarize yourself with DNS, you can learn more about DNS servers.
Which Free Dynamic DNS Service Is Right for You? When setting up a server on the web using a home box, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter a dynamic IP address that can change unpredictably. Remember that a dynamic DNS enables you to use a single address that points to you, regardless of your actual IP address.
For those seeking the best free dynamic DNS service, there is an ever-expanding list of options that provide DDNS and more. By staying flexible and utilizing different free accounts, you can find a service that suits your needs with minimal limitations.