Using Vera *as* DynDNS Alternative

Community Playground General Discussions
#1

Has anyone given any thought to the fact that - since Vera “calls home” periodically to FindVera.com - she might serve as a de facto DynDNS client?

All that would have to be added to FindVera is one or both of the following:

  1. Show logged-in user the originating IP address, as last relayed by Vera

  2. Added bonus: Present (configurable) shortcut buttons that point to any home service(s) that the user wants to access remotely in addition to Vera: printer, NAS, camera UI, etc. (In short, anything the user setup beforehand with port forwarding either on Vera or the primary router.)

This would spare casual users the hassle of maintaining a free DynDNS account. Vera could even act as a HTTPS / PTP tunneling endpoint, could she not? Thus granting access to one’s files back at home on the PC, etc.

Or am I missing something fundamental in this dream?

#2

Yeah you are missing the fact that for most people Vera is still less reliable that a 72 Pinto.

Other than that, yes please let’s add more features!

#3

I agree with chimpware. Vera should maintain their focus on developing a solid reliable home automation controller. In fact I don’t think the Vera Hardware should be trying to do anymore than that.

I think it’s good practice to let a dedicated router such as www.untangle.com handle any complex networking and have vera sit behind it serving one purpose only (Home Automation).

#4

Point(s) well taken. I’m sure most everyone would agree with you guys.
Still, it’d be cool if I could be apprised of Vera’s outward-facing IP address, by looking at FindVera.
This involves no new Vera code whatsoever (and perhaps 3 lines of FindVera code), and potentially benefits many.

I’ll be happy to lock topic, lest things get carried away with more “Wish List” items. :slight_smile:

#5

AT the moment, while the Luup version is in beta, we are definitely in ‘improve reliability’ mode, and not ‘add new feature’ mode. Especially since dyndns isn’t a core feature, and you can get it for free elsewhere.