Preface
But as many developers and hobbyists quickly realize, setting up remote access behind firewalls or NAT routers is not always straightforward.
This article will explain various ways to remotely access Raspberry Pi and IoT devices behind firewalls and routers, compare solutions, and share security best practices to keep your devices safe.
Why It’s Difficult to Connect Behind Firewalls
This means the device has a private IP address and cannot be directly accessed from the internet.
Challenges include:
Private IP addresses not accessible externally
Firewalls blocking inbound traffic
ISP restrictions on port forwarding
Security risks of exposing devices online
Solutions for Remote Access
1. Port Forwarding
By forwarding a specific port to your Raspberry Pi or IoT device, you can access it using your public IP.
2. Dynamic DNS (DDNS)
Since most ISPs assign dynamic IP addresses, you can use a Dynamic DNS service to keep track of your changing IP.
3. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
This way, you bypass firewall restrictions and safely access IoT devices behind a firewall.
4. Reverse SSH Tunneling
The device establishes an outbound SSH connection to a remote server, and you connect through that server.
5. Third-Party Remote Access Services
Cloud-based solutions such as Ngrok, ZeroTier, Tailscale, or Dataplicity make remote access simple.
How to Set Up Reverse SSH
Prepare a Remote Server
This will act as the middleman for your remote connection.
Create SSH Keys
Generate SSH keys on your Raspberry Pi and copy them to the remote server for secure authentication.
Set Up Reverse Tunnel
ssh -R 2222:localhost:22 [email protected]
This command allows you to SSH into your VPS and then access your Raspberry Pi on port 2222.
Automate the Connection
This ensures your Raspberry Pi behind router remains accessible.
Using VPN for IoT Devices Behind Router
A VPN is one of the most secure methods for remotely accessing IoT devices behind firewalls.
Options include:
Running OpenVPN or WireGuard on Raspberry Pi
Using routers with built-in VPN servers
Cloud VPNs like Tailscale or ZeroTier for simplified configuration
Cloud-Based Remote Access Tools
Ngrok
Creates a secure tunnel to your local device, giving you a temporary public URL.
Dataplicity
Specifically designed for Raspberry Pi remote access.
Tailscale / ZeroTier
Peer-to-peer VPN alternatives that connect devices across firewalls and NAT.
Security Considerations for Remote Access
Exposing IoT devices to the internet can make them vulnerable to hacking.
Use SSH keys instead of passwords
Enable firewalls on Raspberry Pi and IoT devices
Keep software and firmware updated
Use strong VPN encryption
Limit access with IP whitelisting
Security should never be an afterthought when setting up remote access behind firewalls or routers.
Why Remote Access Matters
Home automation: Monitor and control smart devices from anywhere
IoT projects: Remotely update and debug devices in real-world deployments
Media servers: Access your Raspberry Pi-powered media server remotely
Learning and development: Students can practice coding on Raspberry Pi without physical access
Business IoT systems: Manage industrial IoT devices behind corporate firewalls securely
What’s Next for Remote Access Solutions
For Raspberry Pi and IoT enthusiasts, new Remotely Access IoT devices Behind Firewall tools will make remote access behind firewalls and routers even easier while maintaining strong security.
Summary
From port forwarding and VPNs to modern cloud tunneling solutions, there are many ways to achieve this.
By following the methods outlined here, you can confidently remotely access Raspberry Pi and IoT devices behind firewalls and routers anytime, anywhere.