Updated June 2026

DuckDNS — Free Dynamic DNS

Completely free DDNS service with a simple API. No renewal requirements, no hidden costs, no ads.

What Is DuckDNS

DuckDNS is a free dynamic DNS (DDNS) service hosted on Amazon AWS. It allows you to register a subdomain under duckdns.org and keep it pointed to your home IP address even when your ISP changes it. DuckDNS is entirely free with no ads, no hidden charges, and no requirement to periodically confirm your account.

Unlike No-IP which requires monthly confirmation for free accounts, DuckDNS hostnames remain active indefinitely as long as you update the IP address at least once every 30 days. The service is supported by donations and run by a single developer. DuckDNS uses Amazon's Route 53 DNS infrastructure for reliable name resolution.

Setup Guide

Visit duckdns.org and sign in with a supported identity provider (Google, GitHub, Twitter, or Reddit). Choose your subdomain name (e.g., myhome.duckdns.org) and note your token. Your domain is now active and points to the IP address shown on the status page. To update the IP dynamically, use the DuckDNS API.

API Usage

DuckDNS provides a simple HTTP API: https://duckdns.org/update?domains=YOURDOMAIN&token=YOURTOKEN&ip=. The API automatically detects your IP if left blank. You can also specify an IP for IPv6 updates. The API returns OK on success or KO on failure. Update frequency: at least once every 30 days to prevent domain deactivation.

Automatic Update Scripts

DuckDNS provides example update scripts for Linux cron, Windows Task Scheduler, macOS launchd, and various router firmware. A typical Linux cron script runs every 5 minutes: echo url="https://www.duckdns.org/update?domains=myhome&token=xxx&ip=" | curl -k -o ~/duckdns/duck.log -K -.

Router Configuration

Many router firmware platforms (DD-WRT, Tomato, OpenWrt, pfSense, OPNsense, MikroTik) support DuckDNS natively or through custom DDNS scripts. Configure the DDNS settings with URL https://duckdns.org/nic/update?hostname=DOMAIN&myip=IP using DuckDNS as the provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DuckDNS really free?

Yes. DuckDNS is completely free with no ads, no hidden costs, and no requirement to periodically confirm your account.

How often do I need to update DuckDNS?

At least once every 30 days. DuckDNS deactivates domains that have not been updated within 30 days to reclaim unused hostnames.

Can I use my own domain with DuckDNS?

No. DuckDNS only provides subdomains under duckdns.org. For custom domains, use No-IP or a paid DDNS service.

Does DuckDNS support IPv6?

Yes. DuckDNS supports both IPv4 and IPv6 address updates through the API.