Remote Access: Ports and UPnP
UPnP
Basically, UPnP is the ultimate shortcut when setting up your home network. The big benefit of UPnP is that you don’t have to worry about port forwarding, which is one of the most time consuming and difficult stages of configuring your network.
The requirements for UPnP are: A UPnP capable router, with UPnP enabled.
Enabling UPnP
UPnP is a setting which can be enabled on certain routers. You’ll have to see your router’s documentation for instructions on how to enable UPnP, if your router supports it.
Enabling UPnP will have a minor effect on your network security. If your network is free from malware (such as viruses, spyware, adware and so on) then UPnP will improve the security of your network. This happens because the ports that programs and devices use while they’re open are automatically closed when the program is closed or the device shut down. On the other hand, if UPnP is enabled once the security of your network is already compromised (that is, a device or computer on the network is infected by some kind of malware) then UPnP will reduce your networks ability to quarantine suspect programs by allowing them outbound access through the router’s firewall. Basically, if you’re planning to use UPnP, be sure your computers are clean and free from malware!
Port Configuration
The DVR needs three ports to be available and properly configured to work correctly over the Internet - the Web Port, the Media Port and (if you’re planning to access the DVR via a mobile device) the Mobile Port.
If you’re not using UPnP (we recommend you do use UPnP) then you’ll need to forward these ports.
Media Port: The default value is “9000”.
Web Port: The default value is“85”- this is typically a good choice as few other devices or programs will use this port. If there is anything else on your network using this port, you may need to change it.
Mobile Port: The default value is 18004.
Remember: If you’re not using UPnP, these ports need to be forwarded from your router directly to the DVR. Without these ports forwarded properly, remote access will not work.
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