In order to avoid loss of important data, Backups are essential and while there are different methods available, there is still a risk of losing work documents or valuable personal files, if the necessary steps are not taken. For instance, you may create backups on a local drive but that may not be enough to protect your data as these backups may fail and it is not possible to access them from external locations.
With Network Area Storage (NAS), you can create another backup that is external from your computer. However, it would be possible to access this backup from external locations. Switching on FTP on your DD-WRT will allow you to access backups externally or to create backups from an external system. The benefit of this set up is that unlike cloud services, you will not have to keep a copy of the files on your own system.
That doesn’t mean that you should forget completely about cloud backups, after all, these are the only method that can ensure that your data is not lost. Still, DD-WRT gives you the possibility of extending the functionality of your router and here, we will tell you what you need to know to create FTP backups on this popular firmware.
FTP on DD-WRT
It is possible to enable FTP access on DD-WRT without major hassle and if you are using it already as NAS, you are probably familiar with the process already. However, it is important to consider that FTP is not secure, which is why some additional measures will need to be implemented. Still, you need to keep in mind that your files will not be encrypted during the transfer process and your information may be compromised.
How to Enable proFTP
You can enable proFTP on DD-WRT, following the below steps, once your USB storage has been plugged into your router.
1. Select USB under Services and enable Core USB Support, USB Storage Support and Automatic Drive Mount. Save and Apply Settings.
2. Allow a some time until your device is registered by your router under disk info
3. Under Services, go to NAS and select the following settings:
Enable ProFTPD (change port as needed)
Enable WAN Access
It is advisable not to allow Anonymous Login. Using a password list would be the most convenient option for Authentication, although the Radius method provides higher security.
4. Enter a User name under Users, as well as a strong secure Password and select which drives you want to share as well as FTP.
5. Save and Apply Settings.
6. Now you can go to Administration, then select Commands and enter the below:
wanf=`nvam get wan_iface`
iptables -I INPUT 2 -i $wanf -p tcp –dport 21 -j logdrop
iptables -I INPUT 2 -i $wanf -p tcp -m state –state NEW –dport 21 -m limit –limit
A/minute –limit-burst B -j logaccept
You can change the values to suit your needs.
A(2) – the amount of guesses that are allowed per minute after B (3) the number of unsuccessful initial attempts. This would slow down and prevent anyone form breaking in.
Alternatively, you can use this code, although it offers less security:
iptables -I INPUT 1 -p tcp –dport 21 -j logaccept
7. Save a Startup, Apply Settings and Reboot router to get your FTO server running on your DD-WRT router.
How to Access the Drive Using FTP
1. You will need to download an FTP Client. There are multiple options available but WinSCP is great for Windows, while Filezilla is ideal for Mac. FTP Manager suits iOS and ES File Explorer works well for Android.
2. Enter the settings based on what you set and you router, then click connect
3. In order to get external access, it is necessary to know your IP address. You can check whatismyip.com before starting the process. If you are using a modem before your router, you will need to set up a port forward as well. These may vary by Internet Service Provider and Modem so make sure that you check the support and documentation available from them. Once you have all the information, you should be connected. This will allow you to access a drive connected to your DD-WRT router using FTP from local and external location.
Cloud BackUps
To ensure that you don’t lose your data, the best option is to opt for a Cloud BackUp service. There is a wide selection of providers available, but some of the best options for FTP accessible drivers include Bakop, HiDrive, livedrive and Adrive. These services will facilitate the FTP on DD-WRT setup and will allow you to prevent loss of data effectively.