Windows – How to create a static IP on Windows Server 2008 R2 so I can access the server remotely

naswindows-server-2008-r2

I have just purchased a HP Proliant N40L which I am intending to use as a NAS, learning tool and just in general something to mess around with. As a student via the Microsoft dreamspark program I can get a free copy of Windows Server 2008 R2 which I am using as the OS.

So that I can remote to the box from outside of my local network and so that I can stream media from it to my PS3, I have read that I need to create a static IP for the server and use port forwarding to forward to this IP so I can remote in. Is this correct?

I am not really sure how to do this and if I need to make these changes on my router configuration, on the OS or both. I am a novice when it comes to networking however most resources for Windows server 2008 R2 seem to assume a fair amount of experience already.

I realise that using this particular OS may seem like overkill for what I currently wish to do with it (stream content to other devices and backup) but as I can get a copy for free it seems sensible.

Edit:

From reading answers posted I feel I should give more information. I have now tried to add a static IP address using my router configuration settings. I have used the getmac command to get the mac address of the server. My ISP is Virgin Media and I have gone to the LAN IP section and I have added an IP address to the DHCP Reservation Lease Info. I can now use remote desktop connection internally to remote to the server (so I am assuming assigning this IP has worked). How do I configure this on the OS as well?

I am also unsure on how I would remote to this machine outside of my local network?

Best Answer

I am not really sure how to do this and if I need to make these changes on my router configuration, on the OS or both.

You will need to do configuration on both your router and to your OS. The static IP address for the machine will allow the PS3 a stable connection description to rely upon.

You can set a static IP address in Network Connections under your LAN adapter details

Usually something like start -> Control Panel -> Network Adapters (Right Click) -> Properties

or if you have the connection in the taskbar right click and click properties

The port forwarding on your router will allow remote clients to connect to the box inside your network but isnt necessary if you were just trying to connect your PS3.

To enable port forwarding there are specifics for each individual router but generally you will have to access it from its web config panel from a browser at an address like 192.168.1.254 (varies) and find your specific port forwarding settings.

Update

Or as was pointed out below it it may be easier to set up a manual IP from your computer in the router DHCP settings.

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