Why can't I access an internal server via Its external IP address?
Question
Why can't I access an internal server via Its external IP address?
Environment
- Datto Routers
Answer
This problem typically occurs on guest SSIDs with an alternate DNS configured to give guest clients the internal server's external IP address.
Accessing an internal server via its external IP address on its host network typically will not work as expected unless:
- your router supports NAT Hairpinning, also called NAT Reflection or NAT Loopback (external link).
- you have Nat Hairpinning enabled on your router.
Not all routers offer this functionality, call it by the same name or have the same configuration options. You'll need to review your router documentation or talk to the router manufacturer's support staff for more details about whether it's supported, and how to configure it.