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
However, this method comes with security risks since it exposes your device directly to the internet.
2. Dynamic DNS (DDNS)
DDNS combined with port forwarding makes remote access behind routers more reliable.
3. VPN (Virtual Private Network)
VPNs are a popular and secure solution.
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.
Step-by-Step: Remotely Access Raspberry Pi Behind Firewall Using Reverse SSH
Prepare a Remote Server
You’ll need a VPS (Virtual Private Server) or cloud server with a public IP address.
Create SSH Keys
Generate SSH keys on your Raspberry Pi and copy them remotely access Raspberry Pi behind router 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.
VPN Setup for Remote Access
By creating a private encrypted network, your IoT devices and Raspberry Pi become part of the same network as your remote computer.
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
Beginner-Friendly Remote Access Solutions
Ngrok
Great for testing or lightweight use.
Dataplicity
It allows web-based terminal access and easy device management.
Tailscale / ZeroTier
Perfect for managing multiple IoT devices securely.
How to Protect IoT Devices Behind Firewall
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.
Use Cases of Remote Access for Raspberry Pi and IoT Devices
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
Future of Remote IoT Access
As IoT adoption grows, remote access methods are evolving.
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.